Mr. Crowley
Ozzy Osbourne
The Enigmatic Life of Mr. Crowley
Ozzy Osbourne's song "Mr. Crowley" delves into the mysterious and controversial life of Aleister Crowley, a British occultist, ceremonial magician, and writer. The lyrics are a direct address to Crowley, questioning his thoughts, actions, and the impact of his esoteric practices. Osbourne's fascination with Crowley is evident as he probes into the occultist's mind, asking if he communicated with the dead and reflecting on the tragic yet thrilling nature of his lifestyle.
The song paints Crowley as a figure who deceived people with his magical practices and awaited Satan's call, suggesting a deep involvement in dark arts. The lyrics also refer to Crowley as both "Mr. Charming" and "Mr. Alarming," highlighting the duality of his persona—charismatic yet unsettling. The mention of uncovering sacred things and scattering the afterbirth could symbolize Crowley's role in revealing hidden truths and disrupting established norms.
The chorus, with its symbolic reference to riding a white horse, alludes to Crowley's influence and the timeless nature of his legacy. The song hints at an impending drastic change, with maidens calling and people standing with their backs to the wall, possibly reflecting societal fears and the controversial impact of Crowley's teachings. Osbourne's repeated plea to understand Crowley's true intentions underscores the enduring intrigue and mystery surrounding the occultist's life and work.