Goddess In The Doorway
Mick Jagger
The Enigmatic Allure of the 'Goddess In The Doorway'
Mick Jagger's song 'Goddess In The Doorway' is a rich tapestry of metaphors and vivid imagery, exploring themes of desire, temptation, and the search for truth. The lyrics paint a picture of a man grappling with inner demons and external chaos, symbolized by 'demons in the bedroom' and 'dogs on the roof.' These lines suggest a sense of turmoil and unrest, both within and around the protagonist, as he retreats to the basement in search of truth and clarity.
The 'goddess in the doorway' serves as a central figure in the song, embodying both allure and challenge. Described with sensual imagery—'Her flesh is smooth and supple / And velvet as the night'—she represents an almost divine temptation. Her presence prompts the protagonist to question his limits, asking 'how much can I take.' This goddess could be interpreted as a metaphor for an unattainable ideal or a profound truth that the protagonist is striving to grasp, yet is also wary of its overwhelming power.
Throughout the song, the protagonist's journey is marked by a relentless quest for meaning and vision, as he searches for a 'temple' and a 'shrine.' The repeated imagery of searching and hunting underscores a deep sense of longing and the human desire for enlightenment or fulfillment. The goddess's tears, 'flowing like a fountain,' add a layer of emotional depth, suggesting that the pursuit of this ideal or truth is fraught with both beauty and sorrow. Mick Jagger's evocative lyrics and the song's haunting melody combine to create a powerful narrative about the complexities of desire and the eternal quest for understanding.