3/5 Of a Mile In 10 Seconds

Jefferson Airplane's song "3/5 Of a Mile In 10 Seconds" is a vivid expression of the desire to escape the overwhelming pressures and superficialities of modern life. The lyrics convey a longing for simplicity and authenticity, away from the societal norms and expectations that often feel suffocating. The opening lines, "Do away with people blowing my mind / Do away with people wasting my precious time," set the tone for a narrative that seeks refuge from the chaos and distractions of everyday life.

The song's imagery of a "simple place" and a "circus tent" serves as metaphors for environments where the protagonist can find solace and be true to themselves. The circus tent, in particular, symbolizes a space where societal outcasts and 'freaks' can coexist without judgment, sharing their unique experiences and struggles. This reflects the countercultural ethos of the 1960s, a time when many sought to break free from conventional norms and embrace alternative lifestyles.

The mention of exorbitant prices and the exploitation of youth, as seen in the lines "Sometimes the price is 65 dollars / Prices like that make a grown man holler / 'Specially when it's sold by a kid that's only 15," highlights the absurdity and corruption within the capitalist system. This critique is a common theme in Jefferson Airplane's music, which often addresses social and political issues with a rebellious spirit. The repeated affirmation of love, "Know I love you baby, yes, I do," serves as a grounding force amidst the chaos, emphasizing the importance of genuine human connections in a world that often feels overwhelming.

"3/5 Of a Mile In 10 Seconds" encapsulates the band's desire for a more meaningful and authentic existence, free from the constraints and superficialities of mainstream society. It is a call to find one's own path and to cherish the simple, yet profound, aspects of life.