EP 9: Growing Your Hands Back, feat. John Densmore
Jun 30, 2021
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In this engaging discussion, John Densmore, the iconic drummer for The Doors and author of "The Seekers," shares insights on his creative journey and encounters with legends like Bob Dylan. He reflects on the joy of live music post-pandemic and uses the metaphor of the Handless Maiden to discuss recovery and renewal. The conversation dives into the emotional connections between artists and audiences, as well as the transformative power of creativity and the importance of personal agency in music.
John Densmore shares how the metaphor of 'growing hands back' encapsulates the collective yearning for connection post-pandemic.
The conversation underscores the transformative power of music as a vital force fostering creativity and unity across diverse cultures.
Deep dives
The Elusive Nature of Dionysus
Dionysus is characterized as a multifaceted deity whose essence is largely hidden from view, illustrating his complexity. Known for his associations with wild rituals and excess, the podcast emphasizes that much of what is perceived about him only scratches the surface of his true nature. His origins remain ambiguous, with debates among scholars regarding his birthplace, highlighting the fluidity and depth of his character. The speaker suggests that Dionysus embodies a multitude of lesser deities, indicating that understanding him requires looking beyond conventional narratives and acknowledging his chaotic yet organic presence.
Reflections on the Pandemic
The conversation delves into the shared experiences of living through the pandemic, including a longing for community and the joy of reconnecting with others. John Densmore recounts his emotional return to live performance, expressing that the experience was akin to rediscovering a long-lost love. This period has prompted introspection about personal growth, with the metaphor of 'growing hands back' used to symbolize the yearning for physical connection and creativity that was stifled during isolation. The dialogue captures the profound realization that these moments of connection through music and community are vital for emotional sustenance and fulfillment.
Music, Memory, and Legacy
The discussion touches on the transformative power of music and its ability to transcend boundaries, with Densmore reflecting on his influences and the rich tapestry of musical history. He recalls the profound impact of his mother and other artists, likening early life experiences to the innate rhythmic sensations experienced even in the womb. The conversation emphasizes the importance of taking inspiration from a diverse range of musical styles and cultures, illustrating how this exchange enriches creativity. Ultimately, the speakers affirm that music is not just a backdrop but a vital, unifying force that connects individuals and communities across time and space.
In the season 1 finale of the Smoke Hole Sessions, Martin talks to music legend and icon, John Densmore, drummer for one of the greatest bands of all time: The Doors. They dive into the last year and the publication of John’s new book The Seekers, where he pays homage to artists that have fed his creativity over a lifetime. They discuss their own encounters with musicians and artists of all sorts, including when John ran into Bob Dylan, lost on his way to The Doors’ induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. They dive into Martin’s latest book Smoke Hole, and how the story of the Handless Maiden, who has to ‘grow her hands back’, is the perfect metaphor for coming out of the pandemic and greeting the world again.
Get 30% off Martin’s new book Smoke Hole at chelseagreen.co.uk using the code SHS30