Don't Kill The Whale

The song 'Don't Kill The Whale' by Yes is a poignant plea for the preservation of whales and, by extension, the natural world. The lyrics juxtapose the urgency of conservation with the destructive tendencies of humanity. The opening lines, 'You're first, I'm last / You're thirst, I'm asked to justify,' suggest a moral dilemma where the speaker is compelled to defend the sanctity of life against the relentless exploitation of nature. The phrase 'Killing our last heaven beast' underscores the whale as a symbol of natural beauty and majesty, urging listeners to reconsider their actions and 'Don't hunt the whale.'

The song delves deeper into the philosophical and ethical implications of human actions. Lines like 'In beauty vision / Do we offer much / If we reason with destiny, gonna lose our touch' reflect on the loss of humanity's connection to nature when driven by greed and short-sightedness. The repeated refrain 'Don't kill the whale' serves as a powerful mantra, emphasizing the importance of preserving these magnificent creatures. The lyrics 'Rejoice they sing / They worship their own space / In a moment of love, they will die for their grace' highlight the intrinsic value and beauty of whales, suggesting that their existence is a form of worship and grace in itself.

The song also touches on the broader implications of conservation. 'If time will allow / We will judge all who came / In the wake of our new age to stand for the frail' suggests a future reckoning where humanity will be held accountable for its actions. The term 'CETACEI,' referring to the biological order of whales, dolphins, and porpoises, serves as a final, scientific reminder of the creatures at stake. Through its evocative lyrics and haunting melody, 'Don't Kill The Whale' by Yes calls for a deeper respect and urgent action to protect the natural world.