Werewolves of London
by Warren Zevon
What is “Werewolves of London” really about?
If you’ve ever wondered what “Werewolves of London” by Warren Zevon is really about, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down.
Werewolves of London' by Warren Zevon humorously mixes the macabre with the mundane, depicting mythical werewolves navigating the urban sprawl of London with an air of nonchalance and style.
So… what’s this song really about?
Warren Zevon’s 'Werewolves of London' brilliantly blends elements of horror with satire to explore themes of the bizarre and the unexpected within everyday settings. The song’s catchy chorus and vivid descriptions evoke a surreal image of werewolves not just as monsters, but as quirky figures with unique tastes and behaviors. They roam from the elite locales of Mayfair to trendy establishments, hinting at the duality of their nature – both fearsome and fascinating. The absurdity is amped up with mentions of werewolves performing ordinary tasks, such as drinking piña coladas and grooming, which both humanizes these creatures and reflects on the oddities hiding within plain sight in urban life. The playful tone camouflages a darker commentary on the monsters among us, perhaps as a metaphor for humanity's own primal instincts or hidden personas.
Moreover, Zevon's references to popular figures like Lon Chaney and his son, both famous for their roles in monster movies, blur the lines between fiction and reality, suggesting that the fantastical and the everyday are not as separate as they might seem. This song serves not only as a whimsical, rocking narrative but also invites listeners to reflect on the nature of the beast within and the societal masks we wear. The seamless mix of rock elements with comedic horror provides an unconventional but compelling lens through which to view our modern existence, possibly as a subtle critique of celebrity culture or the human condition itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who are Lon Chaney and Lon Chaney, Jr. mentioned in the song?
Lon Chaney and Lon Chaney, Jr. were American actors famous for their roles in horror films, notably playing monsters and werewolves, which ties into the song's themes.
Q: What is the significance of the piña colada reference in the song?
The piña colada in the song adds a humorous twist, contrasting the savage nature of werewolves with a stereotypically laid-back, tropical drink, enhancing the song’s theme of the absurd.
Lyrics to “Werewolves of London”
58 Contributors
[Instrumental Break]
[Verse 3]
He's the hairy-handed gent who ran amok in Kent
Lately, he's been overheard in Mayfair
You better stay away from him
He'll rip your lungs out, Jim
Huh, I'd like to meet his tailor
[Chorus]
Ah-hoo, werewolves of London
Ah-hoo
Ah-hoo, werewolves of London
Ah-hoo
[Verse 4]
Well, I saw Lon Chaney walking with the Queen
Doing the werewolves of London
I saw Lon Chaney, Jr. walking with the Queen, uh
Doing the werewolves of London
I saw a werewolf drinking a piña colada at Trader Vic's
And his hair was perfect
Na!
[Chorus]
Ah-hoo
Werewolves of London
Huh, draw blood, uh
Ah-hoo
Werewolves of London