“Montana” is a whimsical journey into the absurd. It’s not just a song, it’s an escape into Zappa’s uniquely quirky universe. What’s it about? Imagine moving to Montana to become a dental floss tycoon. Sounds bizarre, right? That’s the point. Zappa isn’t just telling a story. He’s poking fun at the American dream, the allure of unconventional lifestyles, and perhaps even himself. It’s classic Zappa – weird, witty, and wonderfully unpredictable.
Ready to jump into a world where dental floss farming and pygmy ponies are the norms? Let’s explore the zany landscape of “Montana” and discover why Frank Zappa’s humor and creativity make this song a truly unique piece of art.
“Montana” Lyrics Meaning
Frank Zappa’s “Montana” takes us on a lyrical ride that’s as bizarre as it is engaging. The song begins with a dream, a peculiar one: moving to Montana to raise a crop of dental floss. This opening line sets the tone for the entire song – it’s not just random, it’s a deliberate dive into the absurd.
As the song progresses, Zappa describes the meticulous process of raising and waxing dental floss. This isn’t just a quirky storyline; it’s a satire of the mundane details of everyday jobs and the often-unrealized dreams of a simpler life. The mention of a “little white box to sell uptown” hints at the commercialization of even the most bizarre ventures, a nod to the commercialism pervading society.
The song takes a turn with the introduction of bees and the decision to keep the wax, melting it down for dental floss. Here, Zappa is playing with the idea of self-sufficiency and entrepreneurship, albeit in a highly unconventional way. It’s a humorous take on the ‘do-it-yourself’ attitude.
The chorus, “I’m movin’ to Montana soon, gonna be a dental floss tycoon,” is both a declaration of ambition and a parody of the American dream. It’s about aspiring to something big, even if that something is as odd as becoming a dental floss magnate.
Zappa’s mention of riding a “small tiny hoss” named Mighty Little adds another layer of humor. It’s a playful jab at the traditional Western image, shrinking the grandeur of the cowboy lifestyle to something almost comically modest.
As the song closes with Zappa’s plan to ride along the border with “Zircon-encrusted tweezers,” the image is complete: a surreal, humorous depiction of chasing a dream, no matter how unusual it might be. Zappa isn’t just telling a story; he’s inviting us into a fantasy, encouraging us to find joy and humor in the unexpected.
The Story Behind “Montana”
Zappa, known for his eccentricity and satirical approach, often used his music as a platform to express his unconventional views and to challenge societal norms. His state of mind was that of a provocateur, always seeking to push the limits and explore themes that others might find absurd or irrelevant.
In “Montana,” Zappa’s choice of subject matter – the whimsical idea of becoming a dental floss tycoon – is a perfect example of his inclination to blend humor with social commentary. By choosing such an outlandish profession, Zappa is not just making us laugh; he’s also making us question what we consider to be normal or achievable. It’s a subtle dig at the American dream, the pursuit of success, and the often-unrealistic aspirations people hold.
Furthermore, Zappa’s depiction of the mundane details of this bizarre venture serves as a satirical take on the monotony of everyday work life. By exaggerating the trivialities of the dental floss business, he highlights how absurd the routines and ambitions of modern life can sometimes be. The song also reflects Zappa’s own desire for creative freedom. By creating a narrative so far removed from reality, he asserts his artistic liberty, showcasing his ability to transcend conventional storytelling in music.
In essence, the story behind “Montana” is not just about a songwriter’s fanciful musings. It’s a glimpse into the mind of Frank Zappa: a musician unafraid to explore the absurd, challenge societal expectations, and embrace the unconventional. His state of mind during the creation of this song was one of playful rebellion, a trait that defined much of his career and continues to influence artists today.