Sky Pilot

Eric Burdon's 'Sky Pilot' is a poignant critique of the role of religious figures in war, particularly focusing on the chaplains who bless soldiers before they head into battle. The term 'Sky Pilot' is a colloquialism for a military chaplain, and the song delves into the complex emotions and moral ambiguities surrounding their role. The chaplain in the song blesses the soldiers, offering them spiritual comfort and a sense of divine approval for their actions. However, the repeated refrain 'You'll never never never reach the sky' suggests a deep skepticism about the true efficacy and morality of this divine sanction.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the young soldiers, filled with fear and uncertainty, as they prepare for the horrors of war. The chaplain's words are meant to provide solace, but there is an underlying tension between the spiritual comfort offered and the brutal reality of the battlefield. The line 'Soon there'll be blood and many will die' starkly contrasts with the chaplain's assurances, highlighting the tragic futility and inevitable loss of life in war. The chaplain's prayers and meditations, while well-intentioned, are ultimately powerless to stop the violence and hatred that ensue.

The song also touches on the aftermath of battle, with soldiers returning with 'tears in their eyes' and the 'stench of death' lingering in the air. The young soldier's reflection on the commandment 'thou shalt not kill' underscores the moral conflict and the questioning of the righteousness of their actions. Burdon's lyrics challenge the notion that war can ever be truly justified by divine will, and they call into question the role of religious figures who provide moral support for such endeavors. 'Sky Pilot' serves as a powerful commentary on the intersection of faith, duty, and the harsh realities of war, urging listeners to reflect on the true cost of conflict and the moral implications of seeking divine approval for acts of violence.