What do the Lyrics to the Beatles' "Octopus's Garden" Mean?
Released in 1969 on the Abbey Road album, “Octopus’s Garden” has become a fan favorite, a cult hit a curiosity and a wonder. For two reasons: it’s odd lyrical imagery and the fact that it’s sung by the band’s drummer, the beloved though slightly bemused drummer Ringo Starr.
Written by Starr, the song was assisted by the band’s guitarist George Harrison. “‘Octopus’s Garden’ is Ringo’s song,” Harrison previously said of the process. “It’s only the second song Ringo wrote, and it’s lovely.”
But what else did Harrison have to say? And what is an octopus’s garden and why is it so catchy?
Like everyone else, Harrison recognized the high quality of the composition, even if it was a bit goofy. Not only did he call it “lovely” but Harrison said the song gets into a listener’s mind “because it’s so peaceful. I suppose Ringo is writing cosmic songs these days without even realizing it.”
In the end, “Octopus’s Garden” was Ringo’s last song sung for the former Mop Tops. But it was a doozy.
Source: Jacob Uitti/americansongwriter.com
