We Could Be So Good Together
Jim Morrison
The Duality of Desire and Deception in 'We Could Be So Good Together'
Jim Morrison's 'We Could Be So Good Together' is a compelling exploration of the duality inherent in human relationships, particularly the tension between desire and deception. The repetitive chorus, 'We could be so good together,' underscores a yearning for unity and harmony, suggesting an idealized vision of a relationship that could flourish if both parties are in sync. This repetition not only emphasizes the potential for a perfect union but also hints at a persistent hope or belief in this possibility, despite underlying complexities.
The verses introduce a darker, more complex layer to this idealized vision. Morrison sings about telling 'wicked lies,' which introduces an element of deceit and manipulation. This juxtaposition of potential harmony with the reality of deception creates a tension that runs throughout the song. The 'wanton world without lament' and the 'enterprise, expedition, invitation, and invention' suggest a world of endless possibilities and adventures, but one that is built on falsehoods and illusions. This could be interpreted as a commentary on the human tendency to create elaborate fantasies and narratives to escape the mundane or painful aspects of reality.
The imagery of angels in the latter part of the song adds a spiritual dimension to this exploration. The lines 'The time you wait subtracts the joy / Beheads the angels you destroy' suggest that procrastination and inaction can lead to the loss of innocence and purity. The angels' fight, cry, dance, and die, symbolizing the full spectrum of human emotions and experiences, further emphasize the fragility and transient nature of these idealized visions. In essence, Morrison's lyrics capture the complex interplay between hope and disillusionment, desire and deceit, and the eternal quest for a perfect union that may ultimately be unattainable.