“Sympathy for the Devil” is a masterclass in lyrical storytelling, wrapped in a shroud of mystery and intrigue. This song is a journey through history from the perspective of evil itself. The Stones weave a narrative that challenges listeners to confront the darker aspects of humanity and history, embodied in the figure who’s been around causing chaos and destruction. With his signature swagger, Mick Jagger brings this character to life, leaving us to question the nature of evil.
Curious about how a rock song can encapsulate so much history and philosophy? The Stones aren’t just talking about a character from the past. They’re pulling back the curtain on the human condition, and it’s a wild ride you won’t want to miss.
“Sympathy for the Devil” Lyrics Meaning
“Sympathy for the Devil” by The Rolling Stones is like a historical odyssey, presented through the eyes of a boastful, sinister character. Starting with, “Please allow me to introduce myself, I’m a man of wealth and taste,” we’re immediately introduced to this enigmatic figure. He’s not just any character; he’s seen the world change, influencing historical events. This isn’t just about wealth and taste; it’s about power and influence.
When he says, “I’ve been around for a long, long year, Stole million man’s soul an faith,” it’s a metaphor for the corrupting influence of evil throughout time. It’s about how this character has been a constant, sinister presence.
The references to historical events, like Jesus Christ’s crucifixion, the Russian Revolution, and World War II, aren’t just name-dropping. They’re there to show how evil has been a silent participant in human affairs, influencing and altering the course of history.
The chorus, “Pleased to meet you, Hope you guess my name,” is a taunt. It’s challenging the listener to recognize this character — a representation of the devil or evil itself.
The most chilling part might be, “Just as every cop is a criminal, And all the sinners saints,” suggesting that good and evil are two sides of the same coin. It’s a philosophical musing on the duality of human nature.
As the song progresses, the character’s involvement in human affairs becomes more overt, ending with a warning: “So if you meet me, Have some courtesy, Have some sympathy, and some taste.” It’s a reminder that this evil, this devil, isn’t just a historical figure; it’s a part of our daily lives, influencing our actions and choices.
The Story Behind “Sympathy for the Devil”
“Sympathy for the Devil” was born in a period of immense cultural and political upheaval. The late 1960s were times of radical change, and the Stones, especially Mick Jagger, were keen observers of this tumult. Jagger’s inspiration came partly from the works of Russian author Mikhail Bulgakov, particularly “The Master and Margarita,” a novel where the devil visits Soviet Russia. This influence is evident in the song’s narrative style and its focus on evil as a charismatic, influential figure.
The Stones were also reacting to the changing nature of rock music and society at large. This period saw the band moving away from conventional love songs, diving into more complex and darker themes. They were reflecting on the tumultuous events of their times – the assassinations, the wars, the social changes – and pondering the role of evil in human affairs.
In “Sympathy for the Devil,” Jagger embodies this character with an almost unsettling ease, reflecting his own fascination with the darker aspects of the human psyche. The song isn’t just a recounting of historical events; it’s a reflection of the band’s own mental state, exploring the complexities and ambiguities of good and evil.
“Sympathy for the Devil” remains a potent, thought-provoking song because it speaks to the timeless nature of its themes. It’s about the constant presence of evil in the human story and our ongoing struggle to understand and contend with it.