Wicked

The song "Wicked" by Jolly Rogers tells the gripping and dark tale of Captain Avery, a notorious pirate whose life was marked by mutiny, plunder, and infamy. The narrative begins with Avery's discontent aboard the privateer Charles, where the crew's morale is low, and the captain is perpetually drunk. This dissatisfaction leads to a 'polite mutiny,' where Avery and his crew take control of the ship and embark on a life of piracy. This act of rebellion sets the stage for the wicked adventures that follow, as they sail to the Arabian Sea and form alliances with other pirate ships to target merchant vessels laden with valuable goods.

The song vividly describes the brutal and ruthless nature of piracy, with scenes of fierce battles, cannon fire, and the merciless treatment of captured crews. Avery's crew is depicted as relentless and bloodthirsty, driven by the lure of immense wealth. The lyrics paint a picture of chaos and carnage, with bodies strewn across the deck and treasure chests overflowing with silver and gold. The song also touches on the moral depravity of the pirates, highlighting their indulgence in rape and torture, further emphasizing the 'wicked' nature of their deeds.

As the story progresses, Avery's fortunes rise, culminating in the capture of a ship carrying the emperor's daughter, who becomes his prized possession. The song concludes with Avery's eventual retirement from piracy, having amassed a fortune that allows him to live like a king. Despite his heinous actions, Avery's legacy is one of infamy and success, challenging the notion that crime doesn't pay. The repeated refrain of "My wicked wicked ways" serves as a haunting reminder of the dark and violent path that led to Avery's ill-gotten gains, leaving a lasting impression of the ruthless and unforgiving world of piracy.