Brooklyn (Owes the Charmer Under Me)

The fact that this song's lyrics are so open ended and that so many themes can be read into it by the listener is proof of it's creative genius and the reason why I love it so much.

Fagen & Becker may have had a specific scenario in mind [like arrogant neighbors in Brooklyn as stated in other posts]- but the words can be spun in many directions in the listener's mind.

To me, there are very elemental and Biblical associations in it:

• the angels who fell with Lucifer in the rebellion ("race of angels / Eden / preaches / charmer")along with allusions to the Serpent charming Eve in the garden. The "piece of island cooling in the sea" is an image of newly formed volcanic landmass which simultaneously reminds me of the Genesis creation account as well as Atlantis' sinking as a metaphor for fallen human society.

Yeah - I know; my interpretation is out there. It's probably just about Rock star decadence, right?

I agree with Apple Harvey - the steel guitar is absolute perfection. Makes me proud to be American !