Sturgill Simpson crafts a vivid narrative that delves into the complexities of military life and its aftermath. The lyrics recount a sailor's journey through various ports, encapsulating both the allure and disillusionment of naval service. The mention of exotic locations like Thailand and Japan juxtaposes the excitement of travel with the monotony and existential questioning inherent in military duty. Through personal anecdotes, Simpson underscores themes of camaraderie, escapism, and regret, painting a picture of youthful adventure tainted by underlying discontent. The recurring motif of "sea stories" symbolizes enduring memories that shape one's identity long after leaving service. Ultimately, the song critiques the broader implications of serving in what is described as "a politician's war," suggesting that while the experience may be formative, it is also fraught with moral ambiguity and personal sacrifice.
Sea Stories
Lyrics
Basically it's just like papaw says
Keep your mouth shut and you'll be fine
Just another enlisted egg
In the bowl for Uncle Sam's beater
When you get to Dam Neck
Hear a voice in your head
Saying, my life's no longer mine
Have you running with some s-a-d s-o-t
B-M-F's Anitas
Sailing out on them high seas
Feels just like being born
That first port call in Thailand
Feels like a pollywog turning nineteen
They've got king cobras fighting in boxing rings
And all the angels play Connect Four
Seems like a sailor's paradise
But turns out to be a bad dream
When I hit the ground running in Tokyo
From Kawasaki to Ebisu
Yokosuka, Yokohama, and Shinjuku
Shibuya, Ropongi, and Harajuku
Aw, from Pusan and Ko Chang, Pattaya to Phuket
From Singapore to Kuala Lumpur
Seen damn near the whole damn world
From the inside of a bar
I've got sea stories
They're all true
Might seem a little bit far-fetched
But why would I lie to you
Memories make forever stains
Still got salt running through my veins
I've got sea stories
And my shellback, too
Sometimes Sirens send a ship off course
Horizon gets so hazy
Maybe get high, play a little GoldenEye
On that old sixtyfour
And if you get sick and can't manage the kick
And get yourself kicked out the navy
You'll spend the next year trying to score
From a futon life raft on the floor
And the next fifteen trying to figure out
What the hell you did that for
But flying high beats dying for lies
In a politician's war
Writer(s): John Sturgill Simpson
Copyright(s): Lyrics © Wixen Music Publishing
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
What is the Meaning of Sea Stories
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