Aqualung

Jethro Tull's 'Aqualung' is a song that paints a vivid picture of a homeless man, the eponymous Aqualung, who is marginalized and observed with a mix of disdain and pity. The lyrics, written by the band's frontman Ian Anderson, offer a narrative that is both specific in its imagery and universal in its themes of alienation and the human condition. The opening lines immediately set a scene of discomfort and judgment, as Aqualung is described in a less than flattering light, eyeing young girls and appearing unkempt and dirty. This introduction challenges the listener to confront their own prejudices and the ways in which society views and treats the less fortunate.

The song's chorus and verses alternate between descriptive passages and more reflective moments, where Aqualung's loneliness and pain are palpable. The references to the cold, his physical ailments, and the struggle for survival in a world that seems indifferent to his plight evoke a sense of empathy. The mention of 'Salvation a la mode and a cup of tea' suggests a fleeting moment of comfort or respite from his harsh reality, perhaps from a charitable organization or a kind stranger. Yet, the overall tone remains one of isolation and despair.

'Aqualung' is not just a character study; it's a commentary on the societal attitudes towards the homeless and destitute. The song's narrative voice oscillates between an external observer and a more personal, perhaps internal, perspective, indicating a shared humanity with Aqualung. The repeated reassurance, 'You poor old sod, you see, it's only me,' implies a recognition and an attempt to connect with Aqualung, acknowledging that beneath the surface, there is a common bond that unites us all, regardless of our social standing.