In the Rolling Stones' iconic song "Sympathy for the Devil," the line "troubadours who get killed before they reach Bombay" is a poignant reference to 1960s hippies. These individuals embarked on journeys to the East, primarily across the "Hippie Trail," seeking spiritual enlightenment, self-discovery, and alternative lifestyles.
The Symbolic Meaning of "Troubadours"
The term "troubadours" here is used metaphorically. Historically, troubadours were medieval poet-musicians who traveled widely, spreading their art and stories. In the context of the song, it evokes an image of:
- Wandering Seekers: Individuals on a quest, much like the original troubadours.
- Artistic and Free-Spirited: Reflecting the counter-culture ideals of the 1960s.
- Vulnerable Adventurers: Highlighting the dangers faced by those who ventured into unfamiliar and sometimes hostile territories.
The Historical Context: The Hippie Trail
The "Hippie Trail" was an overland route popular from the mid-1950s to the late 1970s, connecting Europe to South Asia, primarily India and Nepal. Young Westerners, often disaffected by mainstream society, traveled this route in search of:
- Spiritual Growth: Many were drawn to Eastern philosophies, meditation, and yoga.
- Cultural Exchange: An interest in non-Western cultures and ways of life.
- Economic Travel: Cheaper travel and living expenses compared to the West.
However, these journeys were often fraught with peril. The reference to "get killed before they reach Bombay" underscores the harsh realities faced by some of these travelers.
Dangers on the Trail
Those undertaking the Hippie Trail frequently encountered:
- Vulnerability: As outsiders, they were often easily preyed upon.
- Dangerous Locations: Traversing unstable regions in the Middle East and South Asia.
- Exposure to Crime: Robbery, violence, and exploitation were not uncommon.
- Health Risks: Lack of medical facilities and exposure to unfamiliar diseases.
Bombay (now Mumbai) served as a significant hub and a goal for many, representing a gateway to India's spiritual centers. The implication is that many never even reached this relative safety or their ultimate destination, succumbing to the dangers along the way.
"Sympathy for the Devil" and Its Narrative
Within the song, the devil character, who narrates historical atrocities and human failings, uses this reference to highlight another instance of human vulnerability and suffering, subtly linking it to the broader narrative of chaos and corruption he has observed throughout history. It adds a contemporary (for the time the song was written) touch to the timeless chronicle of human folly and tragedy.
For more information on the historical context of the Hippie Trail, you can explore resources like the Wikipedia article on the Hippie Trail.
