The Meaning Behind The Song: Longer Boats by Cat Stevens

The Significance of “Longer Boats” by Cat Stevens

Table of Contents

Introduction

Many people know Cat Stevens as the singer-songwriter responsible for hits such as “Wild World” and “Morning Has Broken.” However, one of his lesser-known tracks, “Longer Boats,” holds a significant message about his spiritual journey that is worth exploring. So, what is the meaning behind “Longer Boats”?

The Lyrics

Before delving into the meaning behind “Longer Boats,” it’s essential to analyze the lyrics. “Longer Boats” was released in 1970 and immediately received critical acclaim. The song speaks of long boats that are seeking spiritual enlightenment and freedom. The lyrics are flowing, metaphorical, and emotional, making it accessible to anyone who wants to draw inspiration from the song.

The chorus of the song is particularly notable as it goes:

“Longer boats are coming to win us.

They’re coming to win us.

They’re coming to win us…”

The Spiritual Journey

The spiritual journey is a critical theme in “Longer Boats.” As Stevens explains in an interview, “I was wandering in the desert at the time, and the song was the result.” The song speaks of boats, or ideas, that are larger and more substantial than anything else. It is about seeking something that goes beyond the realm of the earthly things, such as fame, wealth, and power.

Stevens’ journey to Islam is well-known, and it would be remiss to not mention how it influenced the message of the song. “Longer Boats” speaks of boats that are seeking spiritual enlightenment and freedom, which are aspirations found in Islamic teachings.

The Environmentalism Theme

Ecological concern is another theme in “Longer Boats.” The lyrics read;

“People lost in darkness

Searching for a sign

That the spirit of mankind

Will help them all to find the way.”

Stevens often wrote about seeking something more and better in his music, including the environment. This theme aligns with his Muslim beliefs because Islamic teachings’ stress about environmental management in harmony with nature.

The Freedom Theme

Freedom is another critical theme in “Longer Boats.” The song is about seeking something more substantial, finding inspiration, and freeing oneself from the constraints of the world. It’s about seeking freedom in the pursuit of spirituality, which allows one to connect with something larger than oneself.

This pursuit of freedom is also mirrored in Stevens’ The Tea for the Tillerman album, which featured “Wild World.” The song talks about the pain of letting someone you love go. Both “Longer Boats” and “Wild World” focus on unlocking the spirit to be free in a world where it’s challenging to do so.

Conclusion

In summary, “Longer Boats” is a beautiful song that speaks of spiritual enlightenment, environmentalism, and freedom. The song is written in metaphorical language, making it easy for listeners to connect with their personal journey and quest for spiritual growth. Stevens’ message is about finding something more substantial than what the world has to offer and exploring one’s inner self. Consequently, “Longer Boats” is a song that anyone looking for inspiration can listen to and embrace.

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