never really thought about it, thanks for the wrinkles.
kerry m gould
usa ,pennsylvania
Mindblowing-----------thanks
daryl <darylleo23@hotmail.com>
england
We re-discovered American Pie on a .50 tape played
on a Jeep Wrangler as we climbed shelf roads in the back country of
Crested Butte, Colorado. That led us to once again question what the
song really meant. I have downloaded your word document and while I
know I have heard slightly different interpretations, yours is excellent.
Thanks!
Linda Cook and Richard Smith <cook.l@ems-t.com>
USA
I always wondered what the meaningof Amrican Pie.
Thanks to your research, I finally know. This is a very symbolic, poetic,
and meaningful tune.
G W <mrinez@aol.com>
US
I really enjoyed your web site. I have listened to
Don's music all my life and now I am sharing it with my daughter
a bates
Texas, Usa
I really enjoyed your comments on American Pie. As
an aging Baby Boomer who lived through that period of time, I remember
that song very well and how it captured so much of what was happening.
Thanks for your site, it really brought back a lot of memories, both
good and bad, but that's life.
Peter Johnson <pjohnson@colchester-county.ns.ca>
Canada
Great Job! Thanks for taking the many hours of time
to try to explain what seems to be unexplainable.
I can't help but think Don McLean had no intention of writing such a
complex tune in it's making. It probably made perfect simple sense to
him while he was writing it. Little did he know he wrote "Rock-N-Rolls
Anthem"
Dan <Glove419@go.com>
U.S.A.
Very nice site. I think I can spruce up the writing
though. I write professionally and web content writing is part of what
I do. I also write business
letters and comedy
. Feel free to visit my website.
Freelance Writer
US
Hello my name is Cisco. English
language is my second language . I visit sites like yours
to learn new english vocabulary
words and improve my english
grammar . I hope to have effective
communication and business
communication for a new job in US. I learned a new word
of the day from your site. I plan to be public
speaking and business
writing better now from your site. Thank you.
Cisco
Colombia
cool
kimberley richardson <krichardson@ferrari.it>
italy
A very interesting interpretation, the vagueries of
the song allow for wide speculation but I agree with a lot of your insights.
Michael Kelly <mllkelly@cox.net>
USA
I found out about this through the about.com newsletter
of 9-3-2002. Very interesting.
Arlene Davis <arlenedavis@onewest.net>
USA
Enjoyed the analysis of the song. Very intriguing.
Margaret <mdalespa@mb.sympatico.ca>
Canada
I was 10 when the plane went down in a Iowa corn
field . We were all sad as I lived around Sioux Falls , South Dakota
. My friend , Myron Lee , the biggest Rock-In-Roll singer of the Midwest
from Sioux Falls , almost got to go that night . He still crys over
Budddy , Richie & the Big BeepBobber . We both do . We will both remember
"On the left stands Buddy holly , a shy grin on his face , in the middle
stands a stought man & on the right a young man just 17" "Gee , we,re
going to miss you everybody sends our love."
MiaGuitar <miaguitar@hotmail.com>
U.S.A.
I love the site. It's been a while since i've visited
as i cleared out my Bookmarks and well, lost the URL.
I love the song American Pie, and i'm so glad you have the Star wars
parody up...i heard it the other day in a shop and it was sounded so
cool (i've only ever read it before)
Rakel <meeow_@hotmail.com>
Great Britain
Thank you for all the work and reasonable interpretation
(without assuming Don M agrees). Since a kid, I always was inrigued
with what I interpreted as Don saying: "This is art, you interpret it;
don't ask the artist to explain. Everyone's interpretation is part of
the art." Good job.
Steve Spector <steve_spector@macerich.com>
USA
Thanks for the information about the song.
I am 43 years old and have just started to play the guitar.
I'm going through a stage of learning my favourite songs of which American
Pie is one. It really is a case of thinking youi know a song until you
really get close to it. The words were facinating to me prior but really
got me intrigued as I started to learn the song. I started to get the
fealing that it was all about the killing of JFK and was happy to find
that there were references in it from this page.
Thanks again
Stan
Stan Kaine <kaine@tecc.com.au>
Australia
I found your site extremely interesting. I often tried
to interpret "American Pie" and my ideas run fairly parallel with your
views. Great work!!!!Thank you.
Chris Atkinson
Auburn, Ontario, Canada
I have only recently become interested in the lyrics
to American Pie after my brother told me about how his English teacher
had expained them all to him. This is one of the best sites I have visited
s far. Keep up the good work!
Michael Baranowski <gangstabaz@hotmail.com>
UK
Thanks for this insight into the song's lyrics. I've
loved the song for many years, but never understood it - although some
references seemed almost too obvious. Your site has helped my understanding
it a great deal more. Thank You!!
Mike.
Mike <Mike@terra42.freesrve.co.uk>
UK
I was very interested to read this. I have loved this
song for so long but I never realized that there could have been hidden
meanings to the words. Thank you for enlightening me, it was a very
interesting read.
Rebecca McMullen <bumblebeetunacool@yahoo.com.au>
Australia
Very Cool Site! Wishing every success with your web
site! Please visit mine. http://www.pandcwebmasters.com/bookstore/bookmain.html
Christine
Burset <cmaster@pandcwebmasters.com>
USA
Great site and good informations!
Cars, Autos, Gebrauchtwagen
its a great site packed full of info u need on the(in
my opiniom) greatest songwriter and singer of all times. i love his
song american pie coz it goes so in deep and makes u think and feel
how precious liofe really is.
kristy wilson <sexy_goddess_4_u@hotmail.com>
australia
One of my favorite songs! Was searching for the lyrics
and was doing a search under Mr. McClean's name but was misspelling
it so nothing was found. I was searching under McClain. So went to search
Buddy Holly and found a website with mention of the American Pie Song
by Don McClean! I really get upset when I catch the song on the radio
and they end up only playing the "short" version! I was born in 1965
and live in Ohio.
Paula Hall <phall89@hotmail.com>
USA
A friend and I were driving home from Steamboat Springs,
Colorado, and were listening to this CD. I loved it 30 years ago and
I loved it driving down the canyon in the mountains. I wanted to know
more about the lyrics as it had been years since we'd actually listened
and thought about the words. We were close on some of them...thanks
for the insight!
Barb <ba45bag@aol.com>
USA
Hi there, this is an amazing home page ... really!
I just heard American Pie this morning on the radio and I wanted to
see the interpretation of the lyrics. I searced for "American Pie" on
google.com and I found Don McLean's official homepage. There your interpretation
was mentioned in a link .. and I'm so glad I read your interpretation
- it's great!!
Thanx for all the energy you've put into this home page ... we need
more people like you out here!!
Best regards,
Vivian, Copenhagen/Denmark
Vivian <vic@ap.dk>
Denmark
Great website.
I've been trying to find something similar on Bob Dylan (Mr.Tambourine
Man)but just tons of websites with the lyrics.
maynie <mayniezaman@hotmail.com>
India
thanyou for the visit
gordon <glmtype2@yahoo.com>
uk
Hi,
I really enjoyed reading your inturpretation.
I think I tend to agree with most of what you have taken out of the
song.
Thanks again
Chelle :)
Rachelle <rachelle_1977@hotmail.com>
Australia
really appreciate your attention to detail...but hey,
I'm a Virgo
...wow, can't believe it took me 30 years to look it up...
take care & many thanks!
kat
katherine rose <felderhof@sympatico.ca>
canada
good lord, you really are great
this interpretation is absolutely brilliant. well done. my friend actually
did this for part of his assignment on rock music, and it really was
brilliant. i now cry everytime i here american pie. curse stupid madonna
for re-doing it.
anyway well done you really are very very cool
i praise you!!
go you!
you rock <yeahbabymoo@hotmail.com>
australia
I enjoyed reading your interpratation of American
Pie. That song hit's home to everyone in the U.S.A anyways. There isn't
a person I've met who doesn't like the song. Alot of us don't exactly
know what it's about, but like any other well written song, you can
always draw your own conclusion. What ever conclusion you draw, in the
end it's still a GREAT song. Well done. Sincerely, Todd Hosford
Todd Hosford <hootnei@msn.com>
U.S.A
Hi to you and your guests. My name is Jazz
(Mom liked jazz
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US
Brill and the lyrical interpretation is very thought
provoking and brill!
Titsylina Bumsk-wash <g-cardy@newbury-college.ac.uk>
England
GREAT website--THANKS! I heard BBAP on the radio yesterday
and decided to finally look into the lyrics, and your website came up
first when I searched Metacrawler. Thanks again!.
Paul Lowe
USA
This site is fantastic. I have always enjoyed listening
to "American Pie" and knew vaguely what some of the symbolism was about.
I always knew it went deeper, and today, for some reason, i just needed
to know what everything stood for. i think the interpretation is very
accurate, and i love that you have encompassed many different possibilities
instead of just writing what you think the song meant. hanks so much
for bringing me some clarity!
Jessica <LoserChick12@aol.com>
USA
Found your site through a Google search. Interesting
interpretation, among others! Thanks for your thoughts....
Cliff Hungerford <chunger108@yahoo.com>
USA
Hi,
I just moved to Ireland and felt homesick for Los Angeles where I grew
up so started listening to American Pie again. Strangely, the version
I know best is a cover by John Denver. Anyway, I could discern enough
amazing subtlety in the song to go looking for the full story and I
found it on your website. Thank you so much for enriching my experience
of the song!!
Sommer Gentry <sommerg@mit.edu>
U.S.A. and Ireland
For me as a Pole it's difficult to rate your job
but I've learnt a lot about the song and about
the American's music and artists.
From now on the song will not be only a pleasent
sequence of notes for me but will become a deeper experience.
Thank You
Mirek <mirekcho@kki.net.pl>
Poland
Very good I read about the references a number of
years ago and wished I'd cut it out so I was glad to find your website.
What a fantastic song both lyrically and musically.
All the best
Ian <i.buchanan@ucl.ac.uk>
Scotland
Greetings to you and your guests. Love what you’ve
done with your site. As an educator I can say you have great communication
skills.teeth
whitening
Catherine
US
Thanks for sharing your hard work. The site worked
well and was very interesting to view.
L <L.Bovis@verizon.net>
USA
Great site, very interesting. Thank you.
Tom Cole <Jackbean3@yahoo.com>
Wow! You’ve found yourself a great franchise
opportunity. Good luck! And great site by the way!
Cynthia
US
Thanks heaps for the fantastic website that explains
SO much!
I really love the song, ‘American Pie’ and I had always wondered what
it meant.
And we had to study some kind of song lyrics for an English assignment
and I decided to study American Pie as it is one of my favourite songs.
Your website helped me to understand the song much better and as a result
I got a really good mark on the assignment.
Keep up the good work and well done!
Rebecca
Rebecca Eden <ddaisy_85@hotmail.com>
New Zealand
I am 17 and i had figured out a lot of it like: The
Jester and Bob Dylan, The Sergants and the Beatles and many other things.
This is my favorite song of all times and i like it even more now that
i understand more about it. Thank you
Andrew Page
USA
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USA
Nice!
Thank´s
/MR
Mats Rekonius <mats.rekonius@skanska.se>
Sweden
Thank you for your interpretation of 'American Pie'.
I would have to agree with each verse as you see it. And it offers explanations
to the song.
Michael Jones <mjshark9928@aol.com>
U.S.A.
On June 28, 2002 we attended a concert by Don McLean
at Chautauqua, N.Y, during which he played and sang all the verses of
American Pie. The audience responded with such enthusiasm that people
were singing and dancing in the aisles. I was so intrigued that I used
the Ask Jeeves search machine (www.ask.com) to find out more. I remembered
the song, of course, but I wanted to learn more. Thank you for this
fine site.
Lee Ross <Lee3961@aol.com>
USA
You have a fairly accurate interpretation of McLean's
song. What you have here coincides pretty well with what I've read in
the past about the song. There are some insights I'd like to offer though.
First, the verse that says, "Jack be nimble, Jack be quick" may be a
reference to President Kennedy. During the Cuban Missile Crisis, it
was Kennedy's quick diplomacy that averted nuclear war. In this context,
the line that says "fire is the devil's only friend" could be interpreted
as mocking the belligerence of the Communists. I think one of the most
cryptic lines is the one about "The Father, Son, and The Holy Ghost."
Aside from the obvious Christian symbolism, it seems most likely that
it refers to Buddy Holly, Richie Valens, and The Big Bopper. The theories
that place Grossman as "The Father" or Malcolm X as "The Holy Ghost"
seem unlikely and untenable. Great site!
Asad <Asad123@aol.com>
U.S.
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USA
The song has always inspired me. It was very interesting
to read your thoughts and information.
Michelle <michellemartin23@hotmail.com>
United States
Have always loved the song and although I knew about
the Buddy Holly plane crash connection, have always been intrigued to
understand the whole meaning of the song.
Thanks very much.
Amanda Ciccone
ENGLAND
Ahh, I've been studying English and your very lucky
or I would sent this in Russian, I enjoyed American Pie very much, will
the sequel be called Russian Pie? It is very good and I am willing to
give the recipie at anytime.lol. Veicreibak steyabh jiok naneta!(very
good site, keep it up)(it is hard to write Russian in English letters,took
me 5 mins)
Romanov <jokaman87@hotmail.com>
Russia
Your songs are awesome, even though they are impressions
and crtisization songs, I love to listen to The Night that Santa went
crazy, The saga Begins, Who let the cows out etc. your songs are awesome
and I hope you impersonate more.i have downloaded very many of your
songs and would like to try to find more. Thank you
Matthius the great <jokaman87@hotmail.com>
Canada
I always wondered about the meaning of the song, having
heard so many interpretations. I can't give a reinterpretation of it
myself (too young?) so I was happy to read yours. Thanks!
Jade <janusface@msn.com>
canada
nice ibanez site
fod
Enjoyed your website on American Pie. Thanks!
Cheryl Mango <Puzzlr1@aol.com>
USA
American Pie is probably the best song I've ever listen!!!
Boong <boong_2001@hotmail.com>
Thailand
Just f'n around the net & found your site very interesting.
I LIKE!!!!
Kim <w8ing422@aol.com>
USA
i found your site through msn. I'm a real fan of don
mcclean and always speculated myself on what americam pie was indeed
sung for. Great insights here, Thanks.
don anura
malaysia
may the force be with you (great)
skyler <pokemon5964@hotmail>
usa
Dear Mr. Don Mc Lean
I think AMERICAN PIE can compete with Simon + Garfunkel's BRIDGE OVER
TROUBLED WATER + THE BOXER, for the title of the most American song.
Antony
Antony Demetriade LL.M. A.C.I.I. <Antony@LSEalumni.com>
Cyprus
Brilliant Interpretation, I can now see the song in
a whole new light.
Michael Smith <boffy@yahoo.com>
England
I enjoyed reading your thoughts and ideas. Very insightful.
Becca <ralvarado4@mail.esc4.com>
USA
I have heard it said that the Jester is Joe Namath.
Don McLean hated Joe, and part way through the season the song was written
he broke his leg so he was "on the side line in a cast" You may have
already heard this but just in case you haven't there you go.
Nate Degn <ngdegn@juno.com>
U.S.A.
The jester is most definitely bob dylan...
"when jester sang for the king and queen"
..bob dylan in 1962 went to englnad to star in a bbc programme
as a rebel of some sort...
and during his visit..in london he
sang in a few clubs..doing gigs...
and on of them is called..."The King and Queen"
...so..literally Bob Dylan did sing for The king and queen...
..and bob in his early years was know as a comic singer...because he
wrote..light funny comocal materials...
...there..
coseo <aheggersonthereyouare@yahoo.co.uk>
spain
Wow - what a great site! Found my way here by accident-was
looking to see who recorded Vincent - (Starry Starry Night) and one
thing led to another and here I am. Thanks for creating such a neat
place!
Cherie <cheshe77@aol.com>
USA
I like your site,
keep up the good work.
AL
Very good webpage you have here, and best greetings
to all your visitors.
You Are also --> WELCOME <-- To Visit My Webpage as well
Have BIG fun...
27 IDX 106 - Odinn
Akranes - ICELAND
My name is Edmund Marco and it's a pleasure to sign
your guest book. I work for an advertising
agency in London. Our agency
represents direct
marketing companies that are involved in the marketing
of products as
seen on TV in England. Most of the infomercial
products come from the U.S. but then again we export our
talents as well. My brother has appeared in infomercials
in the U.S. advertising
various products. I think it's hilarious that English people respond
so well to American products while Americans tend to respond well to
sales people who have an English
accent!
Edmund
England
I work at a theatre that just finished showing "Buddy:
The Buddy Holly Story." I got to see the show, and became curious about
Buddy Holly. While looking at the official Buddy Holly website, I noticed
the phrase "The Day The Music Died." I had never heard that the song
was a reference in any way to Buddy Holly, but I immediately recognized
the connection. I then searched on Google for a website with an interpretation
of the lyrics, and ended up here. American Pie is a really fascinating
song, and you do an excellent job of analyzing its symbolism. Thanks
for a fabulous site!
Roo <kimbyrle@yahoo.com>
USA
i think the real winner in this is don mcleans haircut......damn
that guy goes off.. i wanna have sexual relations with this man...he
is so hot and so are his songs...i love this site and all the people
in the world..lets hear it for cricket...
Angus Mcgee
boganville
...yeah man,,,right on...
all songs should be like this dude...
..mtv ruined it all...
death to mtv...
eggerson <aheggersonthereyouare@yahoo.co.uk>
ukraine
I was wondering what the meaning of the song was.
You helped clear up some answers, but brought some more on. Thanks!
Cecile Bolek <cec13@excite.com>
USA
I really enjoyed this website. It had a wealth of
pictures and quotes from the period that inspired the song.
I used the site to find the lyics to American Pie so I can perform it
live in a Cafe in London, and I could never remember all six verses!
(Especially not with Madonna and Antonio flying round in my pop head).
Nice one.
John Weston <longjohnweston@yahoo.fr>
UK
I really like your interpretation, and I'm going to
use it in my english classes I hope you hear from my students. If you
wanna know Chile is in South America. See u.
Moira Joui <moirajoui@yahoo.com>
Chile
Nice interpretation. For years I wondered if Jagger
was Satan...Now i know. :) thanks for the cool trip. Makes me really
appreciate Don's Music and his meanings. Later
M. Marsh <mattforyounow@hotmail.com>
USA
I'd like to thank you for the work you did on "American
Pie" song - I have lived in US for 10 years and I kept wondering about
the meaning of this song. First it catches a listener by its mellodic
sound and a smooth rhyme, but I could feel there is much more to this
song that meets the eye at first.
And it is obviouse that without a very detailed and unique knowledge
of American history and the history of the Rock'n'roll it is almost
impossible to fully appreciate this song (all the references to historical
events, drugs, names, common phrases, and etc.).
So I am very glad I found your interpretation. And although I perfectly
am aware that this is just a one-person (or maybe several people's)
interpretation, and by no means the official meaning (I do not believe
any poetry can ever have a finite "official meaning" and even when I
write my own poems and let people read it, I do not usually explain
what I was trying to say, but rather hear their interpretation to see
how did they relate to what I wrote) - this was definitely very insightful
and helpful article!
Sincerely,
Edward
Edward <edwardshtrulis@yahoo.com>
US
Your interpretations are interesting and you have
obviously researched the song. Thank you for the site
Kim <lilypily@yahoo.com>
Australia
Hi,
I really like your American Pie stuff. I'm a college professor, and
I'm teaching a course on the Cold War in American film and music this
summer. May I use your materials on American Pie for my course? I might
print it out, or I may just refer all my students to it.
Good work,
russ reising
Russ Reising <russedelic@buckeye-express.com>
USA
Hi (Hello!) Thank you for your Hospitality. Checking
out 50,60's music and songs for our youngest daughter's wedding reception.
Good Luck, R & P. Orangeville, Ontario, Canada.
Bride's Mum <pelsdon@yahoo.com>
Canada
Just passing through, looking for the lyrics for American
Pie. Nice site, though.
Per
Sweden
hey,
i found this one by searching with google as i was thinking of stuff
we can use for english classes. see i love american pie, this is, imho,
one of the best songs ever made and don is a genius. NOTHING and NOBODY
ELSE can reach him.
well, i have thought bout the lyrics too but i had problems with interprating
some passages likely as i dont know much bout buddy holly and dylan's
hystory. but youre text is just great. reading this i got "gosse skin"
(aik, i don't know the english expression so i translated from german
its when your hairs raise... think you got it ;) ). its very fascinating
to discover all the thought don must have had writing this fabulous
song.
if you're working on other interpretations, well good luck and a lot
of fun. do well
alex <asmh9000@gmx.net>
germany
Hi to all my friends
Carl C.
Grüsse aus Deutschland
Dirk
I am doing a research paper for a college writing
class and I chose to evaluate "American Pie". I have not read all of
your interpretation because I want my interpretation to be figured out
on my own. So far I have done the first two verses and the chorus. So
far I agree with what you have said. I am having a lot of fun with this
paper. Thank you for the info.
tanya <noalee@msn.com>
USA
cooooooooooooooooooooooooooooool
Blake Burbank <bonl@QuixNet.net>
US
I wanted to know the interpretation of the song and
I went to askjeeves.com. That's where I found your informative, enjoyable
website.
Eva Cochran
USA
Thought I would sign! Like the colors!
Refinance
USA
Wow. I found this site looking for the lyrics, as
I wanted to parody them for a pantomime I'm writing... and I was absolutely
staggered by everything I found. I've been a huge fan of Bob Dylan for
ages - your interpretations of the references to him nearly made me
cry. As did the rest of it. Having been a lonely teenage bronkin' buck
never having any luck for seven years now, it certainly strikes a chord....
Michael S. Repton
Michael S. Repton
England
Got here looking for Buddy Holly lyrics in Google.
Great data!
Victor Navarrete <vhuet@umich.edu>
Mexico
teed2@poczta.onet.pl
teed <teed2@poczta.onet.pl>
I've always loved this song, it has been my all time
favourite. So it was great to be able to see the interpretation that
has been put on it.
Karen Wood <kazwood@hotmail.com>
Australia
really good piece of interpretive work mate, makes
you stop and think about what he was trying to say in the song. Nice
one!
Mick Griffin <mick.griffin@marconi.com>
England
I appreciate the time you spent, it gave me an insight
to the going's on of seemingly non-important pub/kareoke songs.
John <n/a>
England
this is about the 10th time i've read your interpretation
and i'm still transfixed everytime. very interesting to read
john
england
GOOD
ENISE <HTTP/WWW.FENISE.KOM>
WHITBY CANADA KANADA ONTARIO
LAST WEEK I WAS AT MY LOCAL VILLAGE PUB WHEN AN ELDERLEY
MAN STARTED TALKING TO ME AT THE BAR.HE ASKED ME IF I KNEW ANYTHING
ABOUT MUSIC I REPLIED YES A LOT.THE QUESTION WAS ABOUT AMERICAN PIE.WHAT
WAS IT ABOUT.ISAID ABOUT AMERICA.HE TOLD ME IT WAS AN AEROPLANE THAT
BUDDY HOLLY,BIG BOPPER,RICHIE VALANCE ALL DIED ON,ON THAT FATAL NIGHT.A
DJ HAD TOLD HIM THIS MANY YEARS AGO.SO I VISITED YOUR WEBSITE TO FIND
OUT MORE. WE WILL NEVER KNOW ONLY DON MCLEAN KNOWS.THANX 4 THE INFO
GREAT SITE KEEP UP THEGOOD WORK
TIM GAMLIN <GAMLINTIM@MSN.COMCO.UK>
WALES GREAT BRITAIN
I never knew there was so much debate about the meaning
of the song. I guess somewhat naively, I believed the "American Pie
Explained" by Kasey Kasem (?) was somehow done with Don McLean's help/permission/cooperation.
Gosh...now I'll have to tell my friend to jump into the search herself--if
she cares! Very interesting.
Pam <PamCreel@msn.com>
USA
I have been meaning to do research into elements underlying
the lyrics that struck such a cord within me...you see these elements
were my life...Among my first "45 RPM" purchases was "That'll be the
day"...race riots, Dylan, Joplin, Vietnam, White Rabbit...starting with
record hops...the oldies...and the rest is fairly well recorded in your
interpretations...Thanks so much!
Ron Russell <ronrussell@snip.net>
USA
Great website! Very insightful and informative.
The VIDEO BEAT!
Rare 1950s & 1960s Rock n Roll on Video!
www.thevideobeat.com
The VIDEO BEAT! <info@thevideobeat.com>
USA
thanks
Nutie <lllllllllll@hotmail.com>
USA
I found your site while searching for an interpretation
of "Stairway to Heaven" for a grade ten poetry class I'm teaching. I
thoroughly enjoyed your site and as a result decided to use "American
Pie" for my class on lyric analysis. My students loved the song and
it was a terrific springboard for discussions on history, music, religion,
politics and coming of age. The time just flew by, the bell caught us
by surprise and the students streamed out the door singing American
Pie. Thank you for producing such a useful, informative and accurate
website.
Christine O'Gallagher <Christine_O'Gallagher@csrs.qc.ca>
Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
nice!
Architektur
Good, Interesting variation on lyrics, best and most
convincing I have read well researched and presented
Jonny
England
Thank you for putting this together. A/ Pies words
have interested me for some time and I did hear an interperatton some
years ago on Casey Cassin Top 40. ( 1974??).
I found it facinatationg but only in recent years have I really wanted
to know about it again.
Regards
Steve R
Steve Robinson <wabill@iinet.net.au>
Australia
Very Interesting
Terry Restall <trestall@hotmail.com>
England
Found your site via a search on Google after people
at the office started commenting on the song's meaning while it was
on the radio. Very interesting--thanks for doing this!
Stephen Cohen <tuscohens@mindspring.com>
USA
Great interpretation--I am considering using this
song in one of my freshman compositions classes. Thanks
Carol Daniels <jgfan24@nwol.net>
US
This is the best song of all time.
DC in Florida
DC <MRMONKEYRULZ@AOL.COM>
U.S.A.
Your site is interesting!!
jay <jay675@hotmail.com>
uk
I enjoyed the analysis. Thanks for posting it.
Jim Lewis <drjim@gate.net>
USA
Great site, thanks. I found a link off a Salon article
about the Stones.
One comment: I've always thought that the Train mentioned in the last
verse is from "The City of New Orleans" by Steve Goodman.
http://www.arlo.net/lyrics/new-orleans.shtml
Note the lines:
"Through the Mississippi darkness
Rolling down to the sea.
And all the towns and people seem
To fade into a bad dream
And the steel rails still ain't heard the news.
The conductor sings his song again,
The passengers will please refrain
This train's got the disappearing railroad blues.
Good night, America, how are you?
Don't you know me I'm your native son,
I'm the train they call The City of New Orleans"
It came out a year before American Pie and has the same sad tone.
Mike
Mike Kane <mrmikekane@attbroadband.com>
USA
This was a most interesting article on the meaning
of "American Pie". But I couldn't help noticing that you omitted your
interpretation of why McLean's hands were 'clenched in fists of rage'.
Was that one of the symptoms of heroin useage? Or was it a reference
to the Stones' "Street Fighting Man"?
And I figured that when a "forward pass" was attempted, it mean that
the players were trying to move forward and "progress" musically. But
the "marching band" were the old school band who refused to conform.
And the girl that just "smiled and turned away" might have been Janis
Joplin, but I was thinking that McLean was referring Chris Chubbock,
a roving reporter who shot herself to death on the air in 1970. Just
a thought.
Jonathan <naughty9@earthlink.net>
United States
I am a musician and I play in a brass orchestra.
Next week we are doing a concert with a special theme: filmmusic.
We are playing the music and some parts of the movies are show on
white screen, just with a videoplayer and a beamer.
We are also going to play the Madonna's song "american pie".
I got the movie "american pie" and while looking at it I thought there
might be something wrong. In the first place the titlesong of Madonna
is not in the movie. I know that Madonna covered the song from Don
McClean, but he must have had another story in his mind then the movie
that I've got at this moment. So I started to search the internet
to find out more about "American Pie", the song and the movie.
That's how I got to this site.
Maybe, you can help me.
I would be very pleased.
Greatings,
Jan
Jan van der Veen <jan025@zonnet.nl>
The Netherlands
Jan,
Don didn't have a movie in mind when he made the
song. It was made a long time before the film American Pie which Don
granted the use of the name for. Madonna covered the song for the
movie "The Next Big Thing".
Hope this is helpful, feel free to ask more questions!
Good luck with the concert,
Saul
A BIG fan of Don McLean, American Pie, and Starry
Starry Night (Vincent)
Annie <allabrie@mcn.net>
USA
I am a 50 year old man and I was driving home with
my wife and son. The song brought back memories from when we were in
high school in the early seventies.
Peter Zimler <hpzimler@optonline.net>
United States
Searching for the real story on American Pie. We saw
McClean sing a free street concert in South Dakota the summer of 2000.
His voice has held up pretty well and he's obviously very talented.
Steve Brown <stevesmiles@hotmail.com>
USA
I really enjoyed your site. I was just surfing the
web and i saw this site that looked interesting--and it was. I enjoyed
the interpretation b/c it really made me think about the deeper meanings
beyond the song. anyways, good job with the site! thanks.
Maria <bushgirl7@hotmail.com>
Canada
I love your site. I am doing a project on music of
the 60s for a college seminar on the history of the 1960s. I thought
the analysis was great and also came up with a few of my own ideas on
what things meant. I wish there were more sites dedicated to preserving
some of these awesome songs.
Lauren Barrett <ljaye@earthlink.net>
USA
I was a teenage boy when this song came out driving
a 1970 Chevelle 396 Super Sport. I was sure this song was written for
me to drive around in my very fast Chevy
Bill Shaw <bill@opusa.com>
Good Ole USA
this was an incredible, and informative site about
american pie. i'm a 20 year old college student and i've found that
most of my classmates know the chorus and like the song but that is
all they think of it as. just a song. i've always of it as more than
that and i've been trying to learn as much as i can about the history
and meaning of this song. i knew most of the basic stuff with bob dylan
and the crash but a lot of it helped put more of the puzzle pieces together.
one question though, i don't know if you respond to this or not but,
does american pie give reference to marilyn monroe. that has always
be what i thought to be true after her death and the amount of fame
she had? well, just wanted to say it was a great site and i enjoyed
it. thanks a lot.
Tanner Shaw <tlshaw22@hotmail.com>
USA
good site. very imformative. im hoping to give a speech
on how people interpret this song. could you by any chance tell me where
you found that quote by Don McLean you have in the conclusion? i would
really appreciate it
mary <lilgreenskittle@hotmail.com>
USA
This is very interesting. I have been curious about
this song for a while , and couldn't find the meaning. My friend gave
me the site address. Thank you!
Shira
Israel
nice site!
benno <degred@gmx.net>
Austria
Hello luxury
cruises Keep up the good work :)
con
Australia
I really like the way you put out the information.
I was really wondering about that song.
spencerdawg2000
usa
I had never heard (or read) such an explanation you've
written
Actually, this is the first time I know about an American Pie's interpretation.
Whatever, I congratulate you for your research and I apreciate your
information, 'cause in may country there's no many places or radio stations
where you can find comments about folk rock music.
I wonder if you have some others comments about songs like "Babylon",
"Vincent" or "Magdalane Lane".
Thanks.
P.D.
Please, forgive my misspeling.
Héctor Méndez <jammeswood@hotmail.com>
México
Cool Site. "Keep on Keeping on." (Cheech & Chong.)
Catherine Lake
USA
Listening to music has always been a major part of
my life. I've sang along to "American Pie" for years and never really
thought about what it all might mean. After reading all of your site,
I think you're right on target. I loved the site, excellent job! You're
a tribute to Don McClean as much as he is to music. Thank you for that!
Frank <jr_stressed@hotmail.com>
U.S.A.
GREAT site!!!
Traci LaRose <tntlarose@aol.com>
USA
Very illuminating and helped me understand much loved
phrases for long not understood. One point - surely it's sacrificial
rite, not sacrificial right. Thanks for a great public service, JD
John Dougill <dougill@mbox.kyoto-inet.or.jp>
British in Japan
I always liked that song and wanted to know what the
lyrics mean...thanks for your site!
Ron Faber
Germany
Loved reading your writting on "Miss Amer. Pie."
It was not long enough! You missed the whole thing of Eddie from Eddie
and the Cruisers driving his new Chevy off of a levee and dying (body
never found). Then again McLean's manager had a name like Levee and
could not promote a single hit rock star (The Levee was dry). Thanks!
SC
Scott Colcord <sc23@whoever.com>
Thanks! I've often wondered about many of the lyrics.
Excellent job on the interpretations. Cheers from California.
Steve <Smickel950@aol.com>
USA
Great website! Yeah! Keep it up!
The VIDEO BEAT!
USA
Great info on the song. I really enjoy the way you
provided the visual images along with the text. My daughter is five
and this is one of her favorite songs. As my first name is Marks she
thinks "the book on Marx" refers to me.
Marks Alexander <marksalexander@earthlink.net>
Atlanta, GA USA
Out of all of the websites i've visited on this subject
yours is most def. the best one. you give reason's for your thinking
which most people don't. thankyou for your hardwork
gabe betts
Gabe Betts <betts_11@hotmail.com>
USA
Thanks for your insight. Certain verses were always
a mystery to me; this site has helped explain some of the ambiguities.
Kathleen Morton <kmorton@hawaii.edu>
USA!
Thanks for a really enjoyable half hour reading your
interpretation of this great song. I've been singing it and strumming
it for 20 years now without so much as a single thought as to what all
that imagery was about. Your page is very thought-provoking, very visual
and, I think, very accurate.
BTW, I'd always sung "Do you recall what was *the feel*" instead of
"revealed" (makes sense, actually)
"my" lyrics :
As the players tried to take the field,
The marching band refused to yield.
Do you recall what was the feel
The day the music died? We started singin :
Whatever, thanks again, I'll be back :)
Mike <mjc2002@hotmail.com>
Spain
All I have to say is that I like this site...I was
looking for the lyrics of the famous song....and I found them here at
this site....so thanks..!
Gabriela Anna Konradi <kya_taz@yahoo.com>
Romania
This was a very insiteful website and helpped me alot
with an english class on pop culture that i am taking
Cris Asquith
USA
great site! this song has such rich history and meaning,
McLean is a genius.
mike
I never thought about "American Pie" having such a
complex meaning,
and I've always just taken it for face value. (i.e. talking about the
devil and I thought he really meant the devil, not a singer!)
I never really liked the song before, even though I've always
admired it, but now I like it! Thank You!
Stacie
usa
Very informative.
Tony <teleport895@msn.com>
United States of America
Hello,
does anyone know of or has a four voice arrangement of American Pie
for choir? Please let me know, thank you
Baudolino <Baudolino15@aol.com>
Germany
Good webpage you have here, and best greetings to
you all
And You Are --> WELCOME <-- To Visit My Webpage as well -->
27 IDX 106 - Odinn
ICELAND
I use American Pie, and Vincent in my 6th grade classroom
to teach poetry. Thank you very much.
mary baker <malicia13@aol.com>
usa
I was lucky enough to witness Don Mclean in concert
in the small Midwestern college town of Whitewater, Wisconsin USA. 10/23/99.
'American Pie' was, of course, the highlight of the evening. I'll always
remember it & enjoy the song more than ever because of that small venue.
Tim Piat <tpiatt@hotmail.com>
U.S.A
After reading your explanations, now I can really
enjoy one may favourite songs. I had blindly liked it for years, and
now it takes a full and wonderful sense.
Alfredo Bautista <albapa16@hotmail.com>
Spain
great site !
Georg <gr@tplus.at>
Austria/Europe
Found a link to your site from an article at salon.com
(http://www.salon.com/ent/masterpiece/2002/01/14/sympathy/index.html).
Very interesting, thanks.
David L.
Omaha, Nebraska, USA
Thank you
Jennifer <dangerssis@msn.com>
USA
Entertaining site,well done.I don't know if you're
correct but neither do you!
I came across the site looking for info on Buddy Holly
one of my favourite singers.I was born in 1947 which
was too late for Buddy but just right for Bob Dylan,
Beatles and the Stones they all appeared in the city
where I still live, Birmingham ,it is the second largest
city in the UK.
God Bless America!
David Marsh <marshdandj@blueyonder.co.uk>
England
awesome site, ill write more
jason <vcisjb@mail.com>
us of a
It would be better with the words to the song
m
It's great that you can find websites like yours:
I just recently listened again to Miss American Pye and wondered what
the meaning was. I was hoping to find the lyrics of the song with Google
amd I arrived at your site; I enjoyed reading it all.
I think you did a very good work, and your interpretation is probably
mostly correct.Thank you
Stefano Schacherl <stefano.s@mclink.it>
Italy
I think this song is about the evolution of rock
and roll.
For better, worse, and best. I give absolute credence to the statement
by the (unremembered) DJ who (in approximately 1988)pointed out that
the song begins being recorded in mono, advances to hi-fi, and culminates
(in the last reprise) in stereo -- just as the technology progressed!
I consider this to be THE masterpiece of modern music and the work of
a true genius. He could have chronicled the history of R&R in his lyrics
and just left it there -- rather easy to do. But to combine it with
the advents of technology as well makes it utterly unique! I realize
your emphasis is on the lyrics, but you should give consideration to
the technical side of the recording as well.
bill warren hudnall <maxima1959
@ aol.com>
baton rouge, la, usa
Great site!!!!
allways loved this song and after seeing this website I will love it
even more. Thanks
PS: looking for a 45 for my juke box, HELP!!!
ron alexander <ronpat@zlink.net>
USA
Nice job putting all this information together.
Michael Lipkin <msl@trackdata.com>
USA
Your site is great! Have a good one!
Asian Avenue <lisbethg_g@canada.com>
Miscellaneous,
Your site is great! Have a good one!
Asian Avenue <lisbethg_g@canada.com>
Miscellaneous,
Your site is great! Have a good one!
Asian Avenue <lisbethg_g@canada.com>
Miscellaneous,
Hi, I've always wanted an interpretation of this song.
I had forgot about it until I switched to an Oldies radio station and
hear the song twice in one day and decided to search the web for an
interpretation and found yours. I think that it is great. How long did
it take you to do the research and interpretation?
Thanks,
Keith Lindley
Keith Lindley <KLin361032@aol.com>
Memphis, Tn,. USA
You have settled a small disagreement. Thanks
Phoenix Lavin
New Zealand
I did a search on Google. Your site answered a lot
of questions I had. I love the tune and the poetry, but almost all the
references made no sense to me since I was born in 1969. Thanks for
a clear, consise explanation.
laurie corriveau <laurie_corriveau@hotmail.com>
Canada
Interesting! Thanks.
E. Thomas
USA
NICE PAGE ! GOOD JOB ON ONE OF THE BEST SONGS EVER
PERFORMED !
P.Cramer <villekantee@web.de>
germany
I've listened to this song since I was a young kid
and never realy had a clue about what the hell it realy ment. I just
realy liked the song for what it was, and that was fun. It wasn't until
recently when I started dateing this girl that listened to this song
over and over again did I start to realy wounder the real meaning of
it. Thanks for the info. it was great.
Pat Sanders
Pat
Sanders <sanderspat21@yahoo.com>
USA
Great! It seems that Mclean's words expressed much
more than 10 big books about American cultures.
Toni <verandah@access.inet.co.th>
Thailand
Thank you for this interesting place.
Jaime Garzon <Jaime.garzon@ibsco.com.co>
Colombia
good song... but put in an mp3 wth WORDS
mark <ripmercury91@aol.com>
america
Interesting!
Shari <sbacurin@hotmail.com>
USA
All i can say is that this is a FANTASTIC achievement
for me to have eventually found your site, it was worth the while looking
for.WELL DONE!!!!!
John Robertshaw
England / Greater Manchester
LIke many others I absolutelylove this song. Thanks
for the informative and enjoyable site.
Debra Parker <crawfrig@hotkey.net.au>
Australia
i have been looking for this for years..i was in high
school when this song came out, and always wondered what it meant. now
i want starry,starry night..lol
Vicki Hannon <hannonhouse2000@hotmail.com>
Bradenton,Florida,USA
I'm 46 and told my wife the only thing I wanted for
Christmas was Don McLean's "American Pie" with both the full song and
the discriptive version.
Two thoughts: 1. Could the 'pink carnation and a pick-up truck' verse
refer to Elvis Presley and then him joining the army? 2. Jack Flash
sat on a candlestick -- The Apollo craft blowing up on the launch pad??
Interesting, thought provoking site. Thanks!!!
Thom West <instargazer@hotmail.com>
U.S.A.
I was looking for a site concerning Indian horses,
my wife is painting a figure of an Indian on top of a rearing horse,
and she wanted some reference towards a colour for the horse. However,
your site came included in the search so I couldn;t resist taking a
gander(look), and once there had to read more. Now I have to break away
and continue my search, but as Arnie says, "I'll be back" :-)
Regards,
Brian
Brian D Berry <brian.d.berry@btinternet.com>
United Kingdom
Vdery nice! I was listening to the album and decided
to do a web site for the *meaning* of American Pie. Used Ask Jeeves
and found your site. Good work.
Dan
Dan T
Alabama, USA
What an incredible site ! I have adored this song
as long as I can remember and have had great fun trying to come up with
meaning to the lyrics. The only thing I would add, is about the last
verse: Father, Son and Holy Ghost....I'd always heard was referencing;JFK,
MLK and Bobby Kennedy...obviously McLean was more influenced by musicians
than regular famous people, but the death of those three had an impact
on history and particularly people of the sixties that has probably
not been felt since.
Just one more interpretation ! Thanks for the site man,
peace+hope,
Tresha
Tresha O'Connor <tocker2000@hotmail.com>
USA
Enjoyed your site. I have always wondered about the
lyrics and was very pleased with your site. I am a history/gifted teacher
at a high school and hope to teach a course on music and society. Your
site has definitely given me some good ideas. Thanks!
Amy <ames810@aol.com>
USA (GA)
I was spellbound by the detailed interpretation of
Don McCleans, American Pie.
I am a 17year old who was very much touched by the songs lyrics and
even more so now that an insight has been provided. Even though i didnt
live in the age that McClean wrote the song, i have come to realise
about the turbulence of the era and the use of music as expression.
It is this that makes me realise why the true classics are not only
universal but timless.
Thank you
Anglea
Angela <Pange84@hotmail.com>
Australia
Was reading an article in my local paper that noted
that 30 years ago today American Pie was the No. 1 single. That got
me thinking again about an explaination of the song that I had heard
years ago. I e-mailed the columnist, told him some things that I remember
about the explaination, and then decided to some research of my own.
Thanks it's a great website. I'll bookmark it!
Tom Newberg <tompatnew@aol.com>
U.S.A. (Detroit)
Great website. Very informative. I haven't researched
the song as you have, but some of the conclusions that you have reached
were the same as mine. As for the parts of the song that I hadn't made
up my mind about, your interpretation looks to flow and fit in well
with the general theme of American Pie. Cheers mate.
Dan Procter <daniel_procter>
New Zealand (currently living in the UK)
i always wondered what that was all about. some interesting
thoughts. thank you
danny belt <dannyb8264@aol.com>
usa
it was really great to actually read what the song
meant. thank you. im from ohio and i used a search engine that gave
me a link to a microsoft conspiracy theory interpretation. it had a
link to your site.
bill <hotrodblues81@aol.com>
usa
This is wonderful! I have always been a fan of "American
Pie", but have never found an interpretation that is so comprehensive.
Congrats on a marvelous site.
Jessica <WonderMegy@cs.com>
that was great thank you so much taugt me so much
i always wanted to know.
jim <jtaleski@mpx.com.au>
australia
Thanks for sharing! You've obviously done a lot of
studying and hard thinking on this, which puts you into a rather small
group, so far as I can tell. I'm in that group as well, and I wish I'd
had your help when I was putting an interpretation together, in 1972,
for a poetry lecture I used to motivate college students to take a greater
interest in poetry. Most of the songs I used were fairly easy to interpret,
and it was therefore easy to sell the interpretation to the class. American
Pie was a tough one, because it covers such a broad range of events
and personalities, and uses such an intense array of symbols and literary
allusions.
Nice work. I wish we could have a sit-down on this subject, like we
did in the 60s and 70s, and trade ideas and info on this very special
poem. But, alas, this is 2001, and such things are far less likely now-a-days.
Thanks again, and keep on thinkin'!
bs
bill simmons <bs@pacific.net>
usa
we like madonna's version better, jk, really jk
ang <Angski21@aol.com>
Usa
I've been trying to find the interpretation of this
song for ages, i hate not understanding songs i love! I received an
email from a friend who had done a bit of surfing and came up with this
site, thanks for helping, you've obviously put a heap of time into reasearching
it!
Virginia Henry
Australia
hi
alan <klyeunghk@yahoo.com>
hk
This was interesting! Alot I knew already but interesting
all the same. You have answered a very popular question and you answered
it well. Thank you. CB.
c.breslin <ciara_breslin@hotmail.com>
Ireland
Great web site.
John Brown
Canada
great site, i always wanted an explanation of htis
song
thanks alot!
Matthew
USA
Lot's of stuff here :)
Amanda
USA
a very thoughtful site. i am too young to have experienced
that decade but there was something that had always drew me to the song.
i am glad i have some of the references clarified. thank you.
criss <criss@graffiti.net>
switzerland
Your interpretation is close to the one I developed
for myself back in the 70's. There were some points that I could never
figure out, one being the reference to James' Dean's coat, the other
about who were the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost other than religious
figures and what the last train to the coast referred to. Thanks for
the insights.
Bill <WQE@aol.com>
USA
I have always believed that "The courtroom was adjourned.
No verdict was returned" was a reference to the trial of The Chicago
7. Abbey Hoffman and friends.
Devon <DevonH@hotmail.com>
USA
Just amazing...
The website and interpretation had impressed me as well as the American
Pie of Don mc Lean. I didnt know the meaning of the words of this song
and now I realize that it is the part of American history seeing by
an artist. Every time i hear this song it makes me cry.It is amazing
story, the real story, that makes me to think about the American history
much more deeper than before.
Agnes
Agnieszka <Arozanska@gmx.net>
The song American Pie is amazing. Mclean should not
have let Maddona cover it. The song has lots of meaning and has been
and always will be my favourite song
John Proctor
England
Hopefully you are doing well
I live in Monterrey, México, an industrial city at the North of México
(two hours away from the border of Texas) and I am just starting to
see some American Pie lyrics analysis.
Just one question, why Dylan was called "The jester"
Adiós
Alex Juarez <alexjuarez_m@hotmail.com>
México
Hopefully you are doing well
I live in Monterrey, México, an industrial city at the North of México
(two hours away from the border of Texas) and I am just starting to
see some American Pie lyrics analysis.
Just one question, why Dylan was called "The jester"
Adiós
Alex Juarez <alexjuarez_m@hotmail.com>
México
American Pie is my favourite song of all time. I first
heard it when I was 5 but only in the last 10 years have a began to
think about the meaning of the words. This interpretation is a good
effort, though one or two are maybe a little tenuous. But you are in
a better position to judge than I, because it is based on American culture
in the 60's.
Steve Pickard <stephengp2001@yahoo.co.uk>
England
Great interpretation. Been collecting different ones
Thanks
Lynn <TxAngel356@hotmail.com>
USA
You did a great job on your site, I've always loved
american pie, but I never really had a clue what the lyrics meant. Now
when I listen to it I can know what I'm singing along to! Thanks for
doing all the research, so I didn't have to when my curiosity got the
best of me!
Brita Peterson <thegoofball88@hotmail.com>
America
I really enjoyed learning the history behind the song.
I'm 18 years old and my dad and I were chatting about the movie American
Pie 2 and we got onto the topic of the real song American Pie and he
informed me about this website. I didn't realize how much history and
symbolism was packed into this song.
Dan <vplefty34@aol.com>
USA
I thought your interpretation was very well thought
about and planned with facts to back the interpretation. Your interpretation
is quite a common one aswell with a few new twists. I do have a question
for you though, a friend of mine seems to think the song is symbolic
of virginity lost, i was wondering if you have heard anything like this
and where you think it may come from. Many thanks xx Milly xx
Milly <gravybear@yahoo.com.au>
Australia
I find your site very nice, I was just looking for
the lirycs of the song and here I find a lot of nice infos. Thanks,
it's very well done and I find it very nice to learn all the references
in the song.
Madeleine <master_smurf@hotmail.com>
Montreal, Quebec, Canada
This web site is awesome. I thouroughly enjoyed reading
it. I think it is fascinating how much history is in the song. Thanks
for putting the site together.
Andrew Kopecky <RedwallMossflowr@aol.com>
USA
you rock!
best american pie website i've found yet
thanks for putting so much effort in
the pics are a nice touch
i will definately be back
eleanor
eleanor <ronaelefr@yahoo.co.uk>
france
you rock!
best american pie website i've found yet
thanks for putting so much effort in
the pics are a nice touch
i will definately be back
eleanor
eleanor <ronalefr@yahoo.co.uk>
france
In verse six the refrence to "the sacred store" is
a record store as you said, but when Mclean was a teen he went to a
concert that changed his life. (so its said)The concert was a black
group (they sung R & B) that were branded communist, so their music
was taken from stores, radio, tv etc. The only thing the group could
do was play live concerts which were most of the time held in school
gyms. "where i'd heard the music years before", before it was taken
off the rack or when he heard them in concert. "but the man there said
the music wouldnt play" since they were branded communist record stores
wern't allowed to play their music.
I didnt know if you knew that so i thought i would tell you. If you
ever want to discuss the song e-mail me
Missy <crayoneater14@hotmail.com>
USA, Washington
omer loves you so much
omer <w-levy@mediaone.net>
usa
I remember listening to this song (let me date myself)
as a youngster with my cousins--huddled around the record player following
along with the lyrics. It's a great song to sing on long cross-country
drives.
Janice
Florida, USA
Your film was crap a pie what fool came up with that,
I would rather watch a monkey scracting his ass. TO all yousuckers who
like the film UP yours!!!!!!!
MR T and THE FONZ
scotland
i love the song American Pie, but he has so many other
songs that i love more! the way he describes his feelings, and loves
of the past. it put's you in this state of awe. he can draw vango's
picture in your mind and for that you need to love his music. he sings
of how life used to feel, no one else has done that. thank you
matt J <Devildawgmj@AOL.com>
Mcclean
i love the song American Pie, but he has so many other
songs that i live more! the way he describes his feelings, and loves
of the past. it put's you in this state of awe. he can draw vango's
picture in your mind and for that you need to love his music. he sings
of how life used to feel, no one else has done that. thank you
matt J <Devildawgmj@AOL.com>
Mcclean
This has been a favourite song of mine for many years.
Last week
I was singing the song in my head and couldn't get pas the first
verse - because, I realised, I didn't understand the song and therefore
couldn't memorise it.
Thanks for the interpretation!
Karen Lynch <Klynch@yahoo.de>
A Brit in Germany
Nice site...
fonts <hevmjeu@sailormoonfan.com>
USA
Hi! Wow - I found out about it from the creator himself,
and I haven't got time to read it all as I'm at work with you, but the
alternative lyrics have made me giggle! I'll check out the oodles of
other stuff on my own time!
Have a nice day!
Debs <dobbieclaypot@hotmail.com>
UK
hey, i liked your page. interpretations of american
pie very interesting!!! it has been one of my favorite songs since i
was little and it was interesting to see what you thought about it.
jen
jen <cornett@prontomail.com>
usa
I really enjoyed the piece on American Pie. I have
always wondered about the lyrics and I feel I have gotten a mini history
lesson. Thanks.
Carol Medina <Carolmedina@aol.com>
US
This is an awesome site. I have been trying to find
info on Don McClean for almost 6 months and this is an incredible site.
I have been in here for almost 2 hours already, & there is still alot
i have yet to see...Again,this is an awesome site.. I love Don McClean's
music..
Kelly
Kelly <FireEMT7635@aol.com>
U.S.A.
I enjoyed reading the interpretation of the song.
I had recently heard the song and the DJ mentioned the web site.
Dennis Martini <dmartini@airmail.net>
USA
I enjoyed reading the interpretation of the song.
I had recently heard the song and the DJ mentioned the web site.
Dennis Martini <dmartini@airmail.net>
USA
I think this is incredible. I have always loved this
song, and knew that it had alot of meaning
that i couldn't quite understand. So thanks for shedding light on this
beautiful piece of work.
It truly is a piece of history that everyone has memorized the words
to.
Elissa Rodgers <babycc02@hotmail.com>
USA
I really enjoyed your site and it was quite helpful
because I tried for a long time to find out the meaning of "American
Pie" or at least parts of it.
Christoph Greiner <Christoph_Greiner@web.de>
Germany
Wonderful interpretaiton of Amarican Pie's meaning!
Candi
Nicely Done.
J Fish
USA (Pennsylvania)
I was really pleased to find your site, as I do sing
the song through in the car-loud!-and have often wondered about the
meaning of all the verses,very interesting!thanks-keep up the good work
Steve
steve davies
<mister.chief@btinternet.com>
uk
Great Site
Alexander Heimann <AlHeimann@t-online.de>
Germany
: )
Keith Lefevre <bar10dah@iname.com>
United States
I love this song! I'm glad you put together this interpretation.
It brings back a lot of memories! I was 10 in 1960 and remember well
the whole decade! It was terrible when JFK was killed in 1963 but horrifying
when both Martin Luther King, Jr. and Bobby Kennedy were killed in 1968!
I remember well where I was when all three were killed. I love the song
with the lyrics "Abraham, Martin, and John" in them. I forget the title
but it brings back memories of a time like Camelot when life was so
full of wonderful possibilities. Thanks again!
Francine Hall <francinehall@sbtc.net>
USA
Perhaps the most comprehensive and detailed interpretation
of the lyrics read to date. However there are a few interpretations
that appear a bit contrived to fit the rest of the interpretation and
subsequently are a bit ambiguous, but that is just another level on
which the lyrics themselves are so haunting. The fact that the lyrics
are open to interpretaion is what draws most fans to the song, a peculiar
magnetism fortified for me as a poet (i just can't write harmonies and
melodies are lonely despite being classically trained!). For me the
last line holds the key: McClean's true thoughts and meanings behind
the lyrics as he wrote them echo themselves in the notion that the day
he died, music died. The legacy lives on but in the dirty shadow of
manufactured pop 'music', and that brings us neatly back to the interpretation
that musicians sold out to the record companies who to make billions
pass off any crap as influential. Music and lyrics like this are no
longer.
I found this website, by the way, whilst searching for the singer and
song of 2 lines of music I heard last year. No, I havn't succeeded so
if you know the lines "I only be what I wanna be, I only see what I
wanna see...???" let me know, but with so little to go on it is no wonder
i'm still searching!!
Simon Palfreeman <theblondone2000@hotmail.com>
England
I enjoyed your site, trying to figure out what the
song was all about ... guess we don't really know for sure .. but I
learned a lot of very interesting things. Thanks for putting it together.
Jens Frandsen
Ontario Canada
You have a great website. I heard about it from a
friend of mine. I had always tried to figure out what "American Pie"
was about. You have some very sound theories.
Paul <seahorse@dfnow.com>
USA
I enjoyed very much the interpretation about Don McClean's
American Pie, I have been listening to the song for manny years, enjoyed
the music and the lyrics, but was kind of confused as to what they really
meant, thank you for the enlightment, will pass it along to my friends
and recomend them your web site. Best wishes and continue with your
excellent work. J.C.III
Jose R. Cosio
III <jcosio3@hotmail.com>
Miami, Florida, U.S.A.
Great interpretation. Greetings from Europe!
Heinrich Moser <h.moser@gmx.net>
Austria/Europe
Just found your site using Google after having debated
the meaning of the song with a couple of friends on a road trip I took
recently. Thanks for the info. It helped me set some things straight
and I really learned alot about the song.
Allen <AllenK29@aol.com>
USA
A great intepretation of American Pie.
Mark Doxey <markdoxey@angelfire.ws>
Nth Ireland
Great analysis. I did one in college and am always
interested in how various people interpret the song. The song just came
on the rasio and I "Asked Jeeves" for a little analysis. Yours was the
first hit. Thanks, I enjoyed it!
julie <hsnbox@yahoo.com>
Florida, USA
Awesome....just plain awesome!
Chris Idol <littleidol@hotmail.com>
USA
I agree almost whole heartedly with your interpretation
of the song. In fact as far as my research has gone you almost have
exactly the same interpretation I do. *thumbs up* on a great job. It
was a pleasure to read all the way through. Sincerely Mags.
mags <riplikish@hotmail.com>
Canada
Great site.
click M <clickm@one.net>
USA
I find it amazing that in all of the years since
1972, when my 11th grade English teacher had us evaluate this song in
class (it took us weeks- and I don't think we even came close to figuring
it out), this song has been a constant reminder, a bookmark in the pages
of history, to what it felt like to be a teenage in the throes of change.
Today, my eight year old son, Matthew had me print out all the words
and we read your evaluation together. I feel like he now knows some
special secrets about me and the time of my "coming of age".
Thank you for your insight and fabulous website.
lori <Lorik41@aol.com>
USA
I have always been a fan of your song American Pie.
I am 44 years old. I was 17 when the song first came out. Our English
teacher had us learn the meaning of the song for a class project. We
examined it line by line. I have always loved it since
Debbie Wells <brettsmom56@yahoo.com>
USA
Somebody gave me a Don McClean tape with him singing
folk songs so I just put his name on the met and your site was on it.
Its a great site and shall tell my mates about it I like your interperations
of the song. Iremember the time Buddy died I was and still am a fan
and play his music regular. I am an old rock and roller [61] and still
Jive to the music
Hywel <hew1239@aol.com>
Wales U.K.
Great, i didn´t see this page but i hope will be great;
like i said.
JUAN CARLOS RODRIGUEZ <jcold@prodigy.net.mx>
Mexico
My son who loves music, asked me to get lyrics of
his favorit songs and send to him. We all grow up with this music and
have loved this song. I had heard that it was about Buddy Holly but
I never knew where he drew all all his lyrics from.
What you have done here is a true work of art which will answer the
age long question, What is this song about.
Thanks
John Trenman
John Trentman <Gongolfing@aol.com>
USA
I always felt the lyrics "...the Father, Son & Holy
Ghost, they took the last train for the coast.." meant somewhat more
literally that the holy trinity gave up, or were beaten as the music
of Buddy Holly and the like, which represents good, gave way to the
"evil" influence of the the Rolling Stones & Beatles & others. McLean
perceived a negative influence that these later artists had on culture
& religion. Surely, to a religious man, "the three men I admired most"
would be literally the holy trinity.
Great website! Very enlightening.
Ed <jkinney@promega.com>
usa
im only 21 years old and recently watched a story
about "The Day the Music Died", and I was looking for more info. I found
your site informative, even though i wasnt alive for any of it. Very
helpful in my quest for the answer to this song. Thanks, John
John Borsey <jbizzy77@aol.com>
u.s.a
Excellent site, allways wanted to know about this
excellent song good work
jay bonser <jjjj@jbonser.fsworld.co.uk>
england
Thank you very much! I'm an English teacher at a German
comprehensive school and recently one of my students asked me if we
could talk about the original "American Pie" in class. So I started
looking for more information and luckily finally found you!
Birgit Meyer <nc-meyerbi@netcologne.de>
Germany
This my first attempt to visit your site, but I think
I will
enjoy it. Thanks alot for this wonderful site.
Ahmed <maktoobi66@hotmail.com>
Sudan
The way you interpreted the song is unbleievable.
It is an astonishingly deep song, and now i understand it.
mark <bat6982@aol.com>
USA
Thanks for the site. It was really useful!
Casey Williams <margars333@aol.com>
USA
Always wondered abour 'american pie'. At last, some
answers. Thanks.
Rita Paul <Coppertop2@bigpond.com>
Australia
Great website. Where were you six years ago while I was in college and
doing research for a speech I was giving on the interpretation of this
song? This info would have come in handy! Anyway, thanks for the sight,
I will share it with the many that I know love this song as much as
I do.
Amanda <Amkhodge@yahoo.com>
USA
Great interpretation! I'm a big Stones fan, so part
of the story hurt me... I read in an interview with Keith Richards that
they stopped playing when it happened and that they judged the Hells
angels... Still, great interpretation! There is a lot more behind these
lyrics than I'd known...
Thomas <t.vanderhorst@student.utwente.nl>
Netherlands
I really admire McLean for his song "Miss American
Pie" because it's just a very insightful, awesome work of art.
Jessica Leigh <smiles550@hotmail.com>
USA
a very interesting website...i'm sending it to all
my friends...thank you for sharing it
annie <bohemia00@aol.com>
us of a
Your website is wonderful. american pie is one of
the most haunting songs i've ever heard and i love it. it has also always
confused me and i am so glad that i have this resource to answer all
my questions. Good Work!
Sarah <VenusSM15@aol.com>
u.s.
I came here looking for "Weird Al", but anyone who
lets Weird Al parody their hit song is worth a glance. "Weird Al polkas,
but Don McLean acoustics"
MOB Ferret
Excellent interpretations! It helps me greatly to
understand the real meaning of this song which I have listened and tried
to sing for a long time ( I always sang the words wrongly in the past).
Thanks Reto for helping to spot out this wonderful website.
Pye Wong <pyewong@hotmail.com>
Brooklyn Park, MN
Great website. A friend of mine just started studying
in the US. She asked me whether I knew about the deeper meaning of the
song Miss American Pie - I only knew, it had something to do with Buddy
Holly, since a friend of mine maintains a website about Buddy Holly.
So I was very happy to find this excellent presentation. Thanks!
Reto Castellazzi <Nope!
To dangerous these spamming days :-)>
Thailand
just wonderful,I've loved this song since it came
out.
Donnamae <donnas@merr.com>
USA
Finally I have an explaination of what the verses
mean; instead of "bits and pieces" of what people wanted them to mean.
Thanks.
Karen <OctWit@aol.com>
USA
Excellent! I truly enjoyed reading the complete interpretation
of this classic song. Your understanding of the "happenings" in America
during the late 50s - early 70s is quite amazing... for a 'Brit'! Cheers
and very well done.
Todd
Todd <ToddLazar@aol.com>
USA
thank you for the insight.
j <jpgj_58@hotmail.com>
usa
I found your site while searchinf for my daughter
Katherine.
She loves to sing it, but I thought some of her words were
wrong. Another web site had words that differ slightly from
yours. Which lyrics match the LIFE cover, I wonder?
Peter D Gilbert <peter.gilbert@compaq.com>
USA
Thank you for your interpretations. For years we have
listened to the song and had our guesses as to the meaning of various
lyrics. The song gives us goosebumps, and hearing some explanation of
the lyrics add to them. Thanks.
Scott & Michele Winham <smwinham@hotmail.com>
USA
Hi! I'm a young striving musician, who's dream is
to be a folk singer, so the song American Pie means a lot to me. Your
interpretation of this incredable song is simaler to others I've read...
there were minor differences, but the main idea (being that the song
is about the loss of innocence in American music, and therefore America)
is basically the same. I found your site by searching for an interpretation
of the song through google - I'm doing an essay for school. Up until
a few months ago, I had no idea what the song was about, then I accidentally
found an interpretation and I've been hooked to it ever since. The thing
that pisses me off most about this song is that Madonna BUTCHERED it!
But lets not get into that... anyway, great website! Thanks for your
help!
Erinn <erinnchristina@hotmail.com>
Canada
Thank you so much for the beautifully words about
this American classic. It has helped me explain to my 17-year-old daughter
how we felt about our music when I was her age.
--Sharon L. Smith
Sharon L. Smith <sharons9000@hotmail.com>
USA
Very good site. Thanks for keeping it up.
Phil Bridges <pbridges@ae.msstate.edu>
USA
I saw you in concert when I was around 12 at a local
high school- you taught the audience the chorus to American Pie and
had the audience sing By the Water of Babylon in a round..which I still
remember!! I saw you years later in Greenwich Village in NYC. American
Pie is still one of my favorite songs!!! I found this site because one
of my kids is doing a report on Buddy Holly!!!
nancy <nanhart@aol.com>
usa
please visit my page
Aubrey <deadwai@antisocial.com>
US
I really enjoyed the interpretation of American Pie.
When I was a kid, I recall trying to transcribe the lyrics with a pencil
and paper as I wore grooves into the viynl album. Ah, the days before
the internet and compact discs. Nevertheless, American Pie, in my opinion,
is the greatest rock-pop song ever written. It's the one song that never
grows stale, and now after reading your interpretation, has given me
a whole different outlook when I listen to the song. Thanks for posting
this on the internet. I have this bookmarked and read it over and over.
Kind of rekindles my youth. Perhaps the only sad thing about the song
is that Madonna's cover totally destroyed it. This song should not be
touched by anybody but Don McLean. Nobody can do it justice and sing
it with the feeling that Don had when we wrote it.
Rob <RAsaro@co.wayne.mi.us>
USA
I heard american pie on the radio today and just had
to find a website that talked about the lyrics. his song still gives
me chills, even after nearly 30 years. amazing
gary <gstefano@easco.com>
new york, ny
I enjoyed thanks.!!!!!.
M. Chavez <mc58107@swt.edu>
U.S.A.
Enjoyed the site as well as the song
Ken London <KenLondon@beld.net>
usa
Interesting fun. Thank you.
Mary O!
usa
I need the liryc de Vincent de Don McLean
Gilberto Guerrero <inpreten@tricom.net>
Dominican Republic
Heard the song in its entirity again as I was driving
alone one night - was going to pick up my 21 year old daughter, and
reflected that she was now listening to this song done by Madonna. We
both love the song, and I wanted to get the best interpretation of the
words to tell her about those times. An excellent site - thank you.
sue kirkland <kirkland@bc.sympatico.ca>
canada
a great, film and a great website to go with it. brilliant
vicky <angel1420z@hotmail.com>
england
This web site has helped me in my research project...thanks
HEATHER <calmetetigre@hotmail.com>
United states
What a funky website!!!
Matthue Levitt <mattlevitt@hotmail.com>
England
Your page was recommended to me by my father, who
lived those times as an outsider (a Spaniard working for the Americans).
I had long been puzzled by this song, and I think your interpretation
is very enlightening. Thank you for posting it.
Ines
Spain
This is Bethany from Atlanta, Georgia and I just want
to let everyone know that Don Mcleans American Pie is the greatest song
ever. I listen to it all the time. Even all my friends like it. If they
didn't they wouldn't be my friends!!! Theres only one thing left that
I wanna say and it's "I love you Don Mclean!" "You Rock!!!"
Bethany Dodson <ldodson77@atl.mediaone.net>
USA
i was interested in some interpretations of american
pie i have always liked the song but never knew where a lot of it came
from or meant
bobby kittrell <bjk@itexas.net>
usa
i think it's a good Interpretation of the song...and
it certainly gives me something to think about. I've always liked the
song, but i could never really figure it out, thanks for the help :)
Rasmus
Rasmus Østergaard <gizmoand@worldonline.dk>
Denmark
Pretty cool!!!
Dave <a69rs350@aol.com>
USA
love your comments on amer.pie.
the only thing i would ask is that
you put in more about elvis. I am
sure that don was talking first about
elvis and secondly about jfk and
camelot.
thelma frazier <purplesage@onemain.com>
tennessee,usa
Pretty well done
Itamar Cohn
<rayderby@hotmail.com>
Holland
Very Well Done !
Iam doing a speach on the "Lyrics" For a class and this helped me alot.
Thank You, Jay Clow
JAY CLOW <JCLOW83642@AOL.COM>
BOISE, IDAHO, U.S.A.
Good Interpretation, site was easy to navigate too:-)
Cat <scout_14@hotmail.com>
US
A really good site with soe interesting, thought inducing
comments about the song. I've always just thought it was vaguely about
America, Buddy Holly and Mick Jagger, and never really thought about
every single line. But I will definitely listen to it differently from
now on
Ben
Stephenson <MrBenn@wombles.com>
England
I've had that song stuck in my head, and was curious
about some of the lyrics, but I stayed and searched around a little,
and especially found the interpretation interesting.
Jeremy Duncan
USA
I don't know if you remember me, but I'm your sister's
pen pal from years ago. I recently got an e-mail from Judith & she told
me your site, so I thought I'd check it out. It's funny because my boyfriend's
college fraternity song is "American Pie"! This is a song that will
definatly be played at my wedding! (on July 20, 2002) I send you & your
family my best.
Dawn Harvey <dusk1975@hotmail.com>
USA
I was given the address of this site by the local
library. I'm writting a paper in my Rock and Roll history class on this
song. This is a great site!! I read it over and it's very interesting.
It answered a lot of questions I had about the meanings. I really enjoyed
reading!! =)
Kristina
US
thoughrally enjoyed the inerpretation my freind, a
pleasure!
Alan <McShane>
Australia
I enjoyed your interpretation immensely - it is difficult
as a non-American to interpret the lyrics of American Pie, however your
interpretation enlightened me - so thanks a lot.
Regards
Annette
Annette v. Cappeln <cappeln2get2net.dk>
Denmark
Found it on www.ask.com. Great interpretations. Thanks
for the insite!
Jennifer <jenniferhamlet@hotmail.com>
USA
i just stumbled across your website while trying to
help a
high school student interperet the song for a class project.
i must admit, i very carefully read your thoughts and am
impressed. thanks for sharing them with us, dave.
dave hood <dhood@airwaysfreight.com>
USA
I really enjoyed the website. I am researching "AMerican
Pie" for a research paper in college. THis site was very helpful. If
you know of any other helpful interpretation sites let me know. I would
appreciate it. Thanks!!! It was wonderful!!
Kisha <zwart@cherokee.nsuok.edu>
USA (oklahoma)
I enjoyed your analysis; a refreshing change to the
frequent anti-jew interpretation I see as rather prevelant. The question
remains, though: When are you going to do a comprehensive analysis on
the abbreviated, yet still distrubingly compelling Seeker's Song "I'll
Never Find Another You" ?
Mad Lucas <seastar@sestop.com>
US of A
Excellent!
betsy delmonico
This song will always remind me of the greatest days
of my college life. As Fraternity life can be tricky, this song seems
to bring people together and just make 'em dance.
Russ <russg6479@hotmail.com>
USA
Went to see Buddy in London last night - loved every
minute of it - didn't realise that Buddy Holly had performed the songs
that I seemed to know so well! I'd always known that American Pie related
to Holly and only last night, was trying my best to explain to a younger
friend, the different verses and MY belief as to who they related to.
So today, came back to Manchester, first thing I did was go on the net
to see what I could find out about Holly really, and then found your
site! Fantastic! Thanks
Gillian Nuttall <Gillian.n4@zoom.co.uk>
UK
cool site, i downloaded both kareokes. thanks for
the only good site about the song (and the parodies!)
Mister American Pie <bye
bye@ampie.com>
usa
Have any of you heard Early in the Morning by Buddy
Holly? One of the verses goes "You know a rolling stone don't gather
no moss." So there you go...a totally new theory on "The moss grows
fat on a rolling stone." I feel mine may be on the right track. I'll
keep listening to my Buddy CD... I may have more luck with finding American
Pie lyrics. Any other younger fans of Buddy Holly, like around 12?
Jessi (again) <BHLZeppelin@aol.com>
USA
Are all of you Don McLean fans also fans of Buddy
Holly?
Jessi <BHLZeppelin@aol.com>
USA
I like the song American Pie. I just listening to
it and reading the lyric for a class.
Sarah <tv_2001_1180>
Unitied State
I have always been interested in the lyrics to American
Pie - Thanks for some interesting reading!
Linda
Linda <lconsiglio@aol.com>
two of my favourite songs are vincent and american
pie. keep going on don
sundaraju <eaglerush51@hotmail.com>
malaysia
I WAS BORN IN 1964 WITH 5 OLDER BROTHERS AND SISTERS.
THIS SONG BRINGS BACK A LOT OF MEMORIES OF OUR FAMILY AS EVERYONE WAS
GETTING OLDER. IT ALWAYS SEEMS TO BE PLAYED IN THE STRANGEST OF PLACES
AT THE STRANGEST OF TIMES. UNFORTUNATELY I READ IN THE PAPER OVER HERE
(I AM AN EXPAT) HE WAS IN LONDON LAST SUMMER AND I MISSED THE CONCERT.
THAT WOULD HAVE BEEN A TREAT..
MARK QUINN <MQUINN@ERAC.COM>
WALES, UK
Interesting, but I am not sure I agree with all of
it. I was just a young teenage boy at the time of its release but every
time I hear the song I do sing along with it. Thanks for the insight
Gerry O'Hara <patger01@aol.com>
The great USA
Awesome! Your commentary assumes almost NOTHING about
the reader's knowledge, which is important. My 14 year old niece could
read this and get it.
He probably doesn't give interviews about this because a lot of what
goes into writing lyrics is just a combination of free association and
forced rhyming (though American Pie doesn't use this restraint much).
Although we can read layers of meaning into the lyrics, he didn't necessarily
intend them. This is what makes it "art". Art is how we interpret it,
not what the artist had in mind.
To that end - great job!
Robert <Wivchar>
USA
I am so so so grateful for all the information I found
on this website. I am writing a report entirely about this song and
I wasn't even sure of all the words! Can you imagine?! Anyhoo, rest
in knowing that I am without headache and an advanced english 5-6 class
is much more informed on the American culture of the 50's 60's and 70's.
Thanks!
Rachel
U.S.A.
TOP SITE VERY INFOMATIVE
lenore fitton
australia
Wow! Thanks for taking the time to put this together...
I can remember listening as an adolescent and just singing along without
knowing.. now I know.
John Murray <murray72@konnect.net>
USA... presently in Japan
I did a search on "meaning of american pie lyrics"
using Sherlock, and your site was near the top - that's how I found
it. I appreciate the work you did.
Tim Stever <timandnik@earthlink.net>
USA (Massachusetts)
Enjoyed reading your interpretation of American Pie.
I'm old enough to remember when it was first released and have heard
snippets over the years which described what McLean was trying to say;
but this is the first in-depth interpretation I've read and, I must
say, it seems quite accurate. Thank you.
Jud Morrison <morrison@risecom.net>
USA
I have been looking everywhere for an interpretation
for this song. I enjoyed reading it, it was very informative, and, as
far as I know, for the most part accurate.
Daniella <dsengen@juno.com>
USA
Love your site !
Manolo Mondragon <mdragon@xal.megared.net.mx>
Mexico
I stumbed onto your site while looking for the lyrics
to the song "Stairway to Heaven" by Led Zeppelin. I like you site and
found it to be very interesting to a 17 year old like myself. Too bad
I couldn't find an explanation to "Stairway to Heaven." Why don't you
do something like this to that song? I've heard a lot of different explanations
to the song(Stairway to Heaven but I don't know which one to believe.
Congrats on such a good site. Bye!
Ricky Shelton
U.S.
I really loved your analysis.... brought out a lot
of meanings for me. American Pie's been an anthem for us, and i can
remember singing the chorus when i was 14 years old, without knowing
what or who the song was about...
thanks a million - buy you a beer if you're ever in Bangalore
Aniruddha Shankar <karim@indialawinfo.com>
India
Enjoyed reading about your views certainly is a masterpiece
of a song and will be discussed for decades.
Dave Goulet <davegoulet@home.com>
Canada
Well, a German friend asked me what does the part
"drove my Chevy etc..." actually mean. Now although this has been one
of my favorite songs since my early teens, I was completely at a loss
in terms of interpretation. So whaddya do? Check the Web! Thanks for
the great background information and the plausible interpretation.
Karin Johnson <johnson-wolff@t-online.de>
Germany
looking at your links for lyrics reminded me of the
y2k pie. I thought I heard it broadcast one day.... only never to hear
it again. - so Deja vu.
Thanks, you have done a lot of research.
Bob Nolan <rwnolan001@cs.com>
U.S.A
I really enjoyed reading your interpretation of the
song. It really makes a lot of sense. I have been to many different
sites reading what other people have to say about the song, and you
site is one of the best that I have seen.
Jeremy Lewis <jllewis82@hotmail.com>
Referred to this site by the Altavista search engine
while looking for a place to download the song. Most impressed, I feel
I understand the song a lot better now than I did before visiting (although
I've always liked it)... :)
Tim Wilson <rogue161@hotmail.com>
New Zealand
A very good interpretation, at least as far as any
interpretation of anything the author refuses to interpret can be!
Adam Cuerden <cuerden@harthacnut.freeserve.co.uk>
Wales (Great Britain)
When I was in high school, the bus that drove us home
had a cheap single speaker mid way towards the back. Everyday at 4pm
a local radio statio would play the song in its entierty. The song brings
back so many memories. I like to Madona's rendition, but it is not part
of my youth and innocence of so many years ago. Love your site and thanks
for putting it up.
Greg Crevier <keith.crevier@sympatico.ca>
Enjoyed the entire website and all the information
it contained. It's refreshing to have what is wanted in such an easy
format to use. Joe
joe macek <joem@centurytel.net>
usa
I am 43 now. American Pie was a hit when I was a teen
in Hong Kong. I didn't know the meaning of it until....today.
simon lee <simon@vizip.com>
USA Honolulu
Thanks for the fun. I have always loved that song
and think it is one of the best ever written. Your site does justice
to all fans.
matt <matt@welcomematt.com>
U.S A.
You are doing GREAT things.
dadog <tevans.navy.mil>
united states of america
I enjoyed your interpretation.
Josh Britt <love_machine_34@hotmail.com>
USA
Great site! You mentioned in the introduction that
American Pie wasn't the name of the plane. So what does American Pie
mean in the song? -just wonderin'
Max Fuller
US
I enjoyed your insights here, looks as though you've
spent a ton of time on it. I suppose we'll never truly know what everything
really meant--how come Don has chosen never to explain it all? Maybe
the mystique adds to its popularity. And by the by, until I visited
the site, I HONESTLY didn't know Madonna had re-released this song.
I guess that shows how closely I follow the woman and modern rock. It
seemed to be simpler and a bit more enjoyable back then... But thanks
for the informative site.
Sunny Silverman
USA
well thought and easy to understand
thanks for giving me some more to think about the next time i listen
to the classic
Matt <loser235@home.com>
USA
I'm currently taking singing lessons and will be performing
in an informal concert solo as well as part of a group. And guess what,
my solo is "American Pie"! Initially, my reasons for singing this song
was the "feel good" factor that comes along with the song everytime
you hear it but having read the interpretation, it's amazing to find
that McLean was able to tell such an indepth account of the US at that
time. Thanks for the inspiration to sing!
Jindy Sandhu <sandhuj@capitagroup.co.uk>
London, England
I enjoyed the interpretation of American Pie. There
really are few anthems that can convey the mood of the times, especially
to someone who wasn't there, but this is one of them.
Jeremy Weiland <jweiland@nettalon.com>
USA
GREAT SITE GREAT SONG KEEP ROCKIN
tony <pooky@pook.fsnet.co.uk>
UK
Great job
Mykel Austin <whatagdboy@aol.com>
USA
I never realised the song was that long but it was
great. I thought Maddona did it no justice.I am 14 and a massive Buddy
Holly fan SO RAVE ON!
Kieran Davey <kierandavey@hotmail.com>
Republic of Ireland
And I just thought it was a nice song... My Mum &
Me used to sing-a-long to this on the radio, bouncing around the kitchen
when I was a little kid - good memories, happy times. Most excellent
site too, so much info. and excellent links..Thanks..
Sandie Walton <Sandie@ukf.net>
England
Your website helped me out on my speech for school
about the day the music died. Thanks for making a great website!
Kelly <redcats@timesnet.net>
United States
Just wanted something to help explain the song to
my teenagers. This site was better than I expected.
Emil DeVito <emil.devito@pinsco.com>
USA
Well done, that obviously took a whole heap of research...
but itwas so interesting to hear about all the meanings...
thanx.
Juanita <neet@ilikeaeroplanejelly.com>
Australia
Interesting site!
Lisa
USA
I just ran into your site when checking the proper
spelling of Don McLean's name (ie Mc ir Mac).
I ended up reading your interpreatation from start to finish. It was
great, well done.
It didn't have so much information that you felt tempted to skip bits,
but it had more than enough to make me feel I'd learnt something.
Good stuff, thank you for making me that much wiser.
Tim Gomersall <tgomersall@hotmail.com>
UK
your site was really nice and neat and organized.
i am giving a 20 minute presentation on "American Pie" for my senior
project in english class, and your site helped a lot. thanx!
amy <geekfairy13@aol.com>
USA
One of my favorite songs. I have his name, but can't
sing
a note. Too bad. I'll leave the singing to you and the
REAL Tom Jones.
Tom Jones <avojj@newnorth.net>
USA
My beloved older sister died at the very young age
of 55.
One of my favorite last memories of her was dancing and
singing "American Pie" at AJ'S Pub in Woodruff, Wisconsin.
It always brings this pleasant time with her back to me, and
warms my heart every time I hear this song.
Thank you, Don McLean
Joni Jones <avojj@newnorth.net>
USA
I really enjoyed your interpretation. All I ever knew,
that it was a song about Buddy Holly. I found your site using a search
engine.
Steve Burton <stevadore@beol.net>
USA
Very interesting
Matthew Feirer
USA
An excellent website for an important song. Has Mr
McLean seen it?
Michelle Griffiths <michelle@hwf.co.uk>
England
I think this song is the best song ever written because
it gives a really good feeling, and a sense of the events in that period
of time. I just think that you should add something to your analogy
of the song. As a detective on drug cases I know that the term "Jack
Flash sitting on a candlestick" is commonly used to described the method
by which heroin is prepared for consumption. Heroin is usually left
cooking on a fire on top of a spoon. Many heroin users use that term
to describe the preparation of such drug. Thanks a lot for this new
insight on the song and thanks for clearing it up.
raul <evilbeerstud@aol.com>
USA
Thanks,
I have often sat an thought aboutwhat was meant in the lyrics, but not
being a true audiophile didn't really have the knowledge to put it together.
Of course I think it is a great song, and the uncertainity around the
symbolism adds to its power.
Bob Golding <b_golding@hotmail.com>
Canada
Hi!
This is really great! I didn't think that there's so much hidden in
this song! 'American Pie' is the greatest song ever written. I can't
understand, why people didn't vote it for the best song of the century!
And fuck Madonna and her commercial thinking!
So best wishes from Bavaria,
Bye
Stephan
Stephan Linkel <Stephan.Linkel@t-online.de>
Haag, a town near Munich, Germany
I greatly enjoyed reading your interpretation of McLean's
immortal song. I would point out that the references to Camelot and
the Kennedy administration are a bit liberal. "Camelot", as it applies
to the JFK presidency, was a post-assasination manufacture of Arthur
Schlesinger, Jr., Mrs. Kennedy, Ted Sorenson, et al. It was their collective
goal to buff up to a brilliant shine the legacy of Jack Kennedy (while
glossing over his moral bankruptcy). It has always been a "burr under
my saddle" that JFK, through his martyrdom and subsequent revisionism,
has been placed on a pedastal and lionized. I think it much more interesting
to examine the man with the Camelot facade stripped off and admire him
and his achievements in total.
Cory <skluzak@att.com>
USA, Colorado
WOW!!!! This song has always been in my favorite top
3 since I was very young, and I always knew it was symbolic, but never
came accross what each verse was about. I am really impressed with your
analysis. I wonder if there is a book that has as the theme the meaning
behind the great songs of our generation. I just found the sight while
researching the song on Yahoo. Great work! thanks!
paul <sugarman@home.com>
usa
many thanks for this web site
american pie song is the first i heard when i've been for the 1st time
in the usa. this song brought me so unexplainable things .... i became
more american than my girlfriend from illinois ....
stay this song in your mind ... i still keep it in my soul
schneider <david>
france
many thanks for this web site
american pie song is the first i heard when i've been for the 1st time
in the usa. this song brought me so unexplainable things .... i became
more american than my girlfriend from illinois ....
stay this song in your mind ... i still keep it in my soul
schneider <david>
france
Its Cool!
Tom <Tom41089@yahoo.com>
WHILE AT A WEDDING SOME YEARS AGO DINNER WAS BEING
SERVED AND AMERICAN PIE WAS BEING PLAYED THROUGH THE SOUND SYSTEM EVERY
GUEST AT THAT WEDDING STOPPED EATING AND SANG THE REST OF THE SONG THAT
IS ONE MEMORY THAT I WILL NEVER FORGET THANK YOU TO DON AND ALSO THANK
YOU TO YOU ALL FOR LETTING ME SHARE THIS WITH YOU USMC BILL 7781
Bill Thornby <USMCBILL7781>
UNITED STATES
I studied this one in school and couldn't remember
anything specific about the lyrics(funny how that happens)-thanks for
refreshing my memory
Lisa
Australia
GREAT!!
Bill W. Champion <talespin@bellsouth.net>
USA
Great job. Thanks for the entertainment. The pictures
add greatly to the material.
Caroline Halliday <hallida@zbzoom.net>
us
I remember the song when it first came out. It's only
recently that I have become interested in the interpretation of the
lyrics. Of the web sites that I've found yours has been the best. Be
assured that I'll let my friends know.
Peace and best wishes
Gavin
Gavin Mackenzie <gavin.massiv.fsnet.com>
London, England
Thank you for taking the time to make this interpretation
available. For no particular reason, we had started to think about the
meaning of this song last night. It's now clear that we just didn't
have the background knowledge of the music industry at the time to make
sense of it all. You have been a big help.
Nick and Laura Barton <nickb@davsys.com>
USA
Song is one of my favorites after having a group sing
of the song at a New Years Party and a number of people screwing up
the lyrics I took it upon myself to find the lyrics so when we do this
again people will sing it right hopefully. Note all the people who were
sing do like this song it is just that not all of them grew up in the
songs early days and have only come to like it because some grey beards
(me in particular) have intoduced the song to some of our younger crowd.
I will be back want to read interpurtion again some were new to me and
I need to mull them over. Overall real great site.
John Dylewski <dily827@earthlink.net>
USA
Avery interesting site have read your interpretation
of the song with interest after a conversation with my brother in law
who is a fan of Don Maclean
John Southworth <southworth@talk21.com>
England
Thank you for the interpretation.
Mary
California, USA
Some information found from the internet:
Intro from Casey Kasem's "American Top 40" radio show circa January
1972: "A few days ago we phoned Don McLean for a little help in interpreting
his great hit 'American Pie.' He was pretty reluctant to give us a straight
interpretation of his work; he'd rather let it speak for itself. But
he explained some of the specific references that he makes. The most
important one is the death of rockabilly singer Buddy Holly in 1959;
for McLean, that's when the music died. The court jester he refers to
is Bob Dylan. The Stones and the flames in the sky refer to the concert
at Altamont, California. And McLean goes on, painting his picture,"
Yujin <yujin_312@hotmail.com>
Korea
This is a great site! I love this song and knew that
there were many meanings to this song and wanted to know what they were.
Sarah Chaney <hyunjoo964@hotmail.com>
U.S.A
You misspelled Park in verse #5, "The Stones played
a concert at Candlestick part".
I enjoyed your site very much, I was very happy to hear strong opinions
with out the rant. I am searching around here for some music, if you
don't display any that is fine. Perhaps that would be stealing?
I think the Madonna song is great, I love to hear both her version (I
have them all and only one is great) and Don's. At first I was dissapointed
she did not do all verses. Now I am glad her version is as short as
it is, just about the right measure of her.
Thanks again for a super tour.
Bruce Halliburton <mmhallib@mediaone.com>
USA
I first heard the song from Madonna (should I be embarrased
for this?) :)
and I liked it very much, though I haven't paid much attention to the
lyrics.
Actually, I also have to confess that, here in Mexico both the song
version with Madonna and the movie "American Pie" were released at the
same time, so many people (myself included) tought that they could be
related...
Anyway, I continued listening to it on the radio, but it wasn't unitl
I heard Phoebe (from the TV series "Friends") singing to the song that
I thought "This has to be a really old song if they are singing it in
that show"
And I looked for the lyrics in the Internet, I used Altavista and that
is how I found your site :)
I have to tell you that the description of the song is the most complete
I have read until now, and I am going to tell about your site to some
friends that I think might be interested in knowing a little more about
this song... (and that are capable of reading English) :)
Congratulations, you put a great job about "Miss American Pie" in cyberspace
:)
Myra <myra@apiver.com>
Mexico
I really enjoyed reading the interpretation of "American
Pie." I had never heard any of that before. Thank you.
Kristin
USA
Wow! I am a 51 yr old mother of five kids. My eighteen
yr old daughter was curious about the words to American Pie, so I pulled
up this site to find the lyrics for her. Boy did I ever get an education!
I LIVED through all of that period and never really knew what the song
was all about, just that I loved the sound of it. It was really cool
to be able to finally understand something about that great song!
anna <jdavi34@bellsouth.net>
USA
COOL!
Steve Abrams <stevea@innet.com>
U.S.A.
I tried your feedback form but the link wouldn't work.
Just thought I'd let you know that the "generation lost in space" line
might also include a reference to the 60's (?) TV show Lost In Space,
and perhaps the impact that the television was having on the first generation
of Americans to be raised with one as a regular facet of family life.
Cheers.
Jonathan Shapiro <fiveagainstme@hotmail.com>
Canada
Intriguing interpretation. What does Don McLean think
of it?
Deliberately Omitted <aperfectpage@on.aibn.com>
Canada
thank you for the full-text lyrics as well as the
interpretation - I found this site through "Alta Vista" and I was looking
for it because we are here with some friends from Britain, Italy, Germany
and Guinea, playing guitar and singing together, when we realised that
we did not remember all the lyrics of the song - thank you again and
greetings from Berlin, Anja
Anja-Katrin
Berlin, Germany
For me whose native language is not English and who
haven't lived in USA and UK, it was absolutely wonderful to read your
interpretation of this beautiful song. Now I can better understand that
there are songs that really have meaning. Thank you for your site and
let me hope that I can read about other songs too.
Gabor Molnar <molnar.janak@matavnet.hu>
Hungary
This is a great analysis...i love it and i cant wait
to come back and read it again.....this song has always interested me
and i just really enjoyed reading this...thanks!
Kim <Kimbac13@aol.com>
USA
Stumbled on your site through a search after listening
to the song for the millionth time and feeling the need to understand
a little more. Thanks! Your site is a great tribute to a great song
and artist.
Robert Cannon <robcan25@aol.com>
US
I was driving with some friends in the north of Germany
and then American Pie played on the radio. I love this song and so does
one of my friends. And then, all of a sudden the two of us were sing
it outloud !!! It was such a cool memory!
So I decided to know more about this song and I found it on your web
page. Congratulations for your homepage. It is great, well designed
and I can feel the respect and love you have for American Pie.... Congratulations
again!
Rosaria Mainieri
Brazil
Interesting interpretation with some interpretations
that I had never considered, however, I believe you are British and
all the references to U.S. sports (foul ball, sidelines,etc.) must be
considered strictly in that context as I am sure Don had no other perspective.
Mike Latondresse <mikelat@Home.com>
Canada
i really enjoyed your work
wayne thacker <thack13@aol.com>
us
Great interpretation! I enjoyed reading every little
bit of it! I have always admired this song, and now I admire it thrice.
I see you have invested much of your time to interpret the song, and
I must say that you deserve the credit! Good going!
Omer Levy
Israel
Great job! I have copies of this song, have never
tired of it,
and now have a better understanding of it. This puts to rest
over twenty years of wondering. Thanks!
Bruce Moen <brm@blarg.net>
usa
I wish to thank you for such an in depth review and
analysis of Don McLean's song. You've no idea how many times I've had
to rely upon scattered reviews that I could not recall sufficiently
to reference in regard to this beautiful piece of Americana. As publisher/Editor
of New Poets Press I am extremely interested in American poetry with
depth; this song is a perfect example of metaphor, simile and plain
old "how it can be done" lyric writing that is all but vanished in today's
mainstream music. The fact that few have tried to sing the song, rerecord
the song or do much of anything besides leave it as is, is a testiment
to how fine a job he did the first time around. Again, thank you for
such a well constructed site.
Sincerely,
Kevin Sorbello
NPPress
Kevin Sorbello <coolsteam@aol.com>
USA
i think your site is very informational and i appreciate
it greatly. i am only 16 yet i love the history of rock and roll and
appreciate where it has come from and i am almost scared about where
it is going,(marilyn manson, limp bizkit, etc.). i do have one question
that i would like you to address. while you obviously have figured out
the main meaning of this awesome song, what do you think the overall
underlying theme is. please e-mail me back. thank you for the wonderful
site.
clint <payne984@aol.com>
USA
I began to cry as I read through your interpretation.
I feel like all the pieces of this puzzle have fallen into place in
such beautiful music. I wish the music of today could be that meaningful.
Thank you for such a wonderful sight.
Gina <grt3@humboldt.edu>
USA
I began to cry as I read through your interpretation.
I feel like all the pieces of this puzzle have fallen into place in
such beautiful music. I wish the music of today could be that meaningful.
Thank you for such a wonderful sight.
Gina <Tuzzi>
USA
i really enjoyed reading the interpretations of the
song American Pie. I am a huge Ritchie Valens fan, and i heard the song
was about him. i wanted to find out more. thanks
Amanda Edlinger <aceusn1@juno.com>
usa
I am a graduate student, pursuing a PhD in History.
I am currently working on a short thesis arguing that the veiled symbolism
of the song American Pie serves as a warning to cultural historians.
It is obvious that cultural vesses, providing insight into any given
society, cannot merely be taken at face value, but must be reinterpreted
through the eyes of the conteporary audience. What American Pie meant
to its 1972 audience is of far more significance for interpreting their
mindset than later interpretations. The diversity in interpretations,
both then and now, talks to flaws in the basic theory that cultural
vessels are truly descriptive of a population. Thanks for helping.
M. Stafford <MWSD1305@aol.com>
USA
I was 23 when this song came out and my wife today
were dating it has always had aprofound effect on both of us and still
does today.Tnanks for wtiting it.
Dave Rowe <sbfarm@telusplanet.net>
Alberta Canada
I really love this song. My dad always listens to
fifties through seventies music and I really like it to. I wish you
would cut another album. By you not playing,the world is missing out
on a great singer songwriter that is really deep and one who knows that
to play music is one thing, but to feel the music is something else,entirely.
Thanks for music and the love of music...
sloan whiteley <none>
U.S.A.
Good job, I knew it was about Buddy Holly, and I love
this song, but I had no idea it was all this. It is poetry itself!
jennifer
canada
I am 24 years old and I love Don. Generation X does
not appriciate his music and the meaning behind it. God bless him and
all that he did for the music industry!
Amber Eenshuistra <bes@dem.ffni.com>
USA
This was a good job, my dad tried to explain it to
me, but i never under stod what he was saying,
you did a much better job. Congrats on a great site.
Tom Corwin <tomas13senor@netscape.net>
USA
THIS IS AN ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC WEBSITE.
AMERICAN PIE IS MY ABSOLUTE FAVOURITE SONG OF ALL TIME.
THANK YOU FOR EXPLAINING THE HIDDEN MEANING OF IT ALL TO ME.
YOURS, BRITNEY.
BRITNEY <A98BF294@STUDENT.UCD.IE>
IRELAND
I'm 35 and grew up listening to rock-n-roll. It's
just really weird to actually learn what diffrent songs are actually
about. All I can say is LONG LIVE ROCK!!!!!!!
chris nagrocki <jnagrocki@aol.com>
U.S.A
This song ROCKS!!!!!
Michael <michaelb@net2000.com.au>
Australia
a very interesting and enlightening web site.weldone
and thank you
sarah <not_blond_sorry@hotmail.com>
england
When I first heard the song, I spoke very little English
and therefore understood only small pieces of it. But the emotions and
feelings expressed by Don's voice and the changing of the instruments'
intensity touched me immediately. Now that I can understand most of
the words, the song is a very melancolic and thoughtful work for me
. I don't feel like listening to it in a disco and the madonna version
misses most of its depth.
Your site is very intersting, and I'm happy that other people also show
my passion for the original verion of American Pie.
Florian
Austria
been born in 1975, most of what the song relates to
is nothing but history for me. I love the music of those times, and
have often wondered at all the meanings to the song. I love other bands
like RUSH whose songs are so much more than just the music. Your website
has helped me to understand not only the song, but the attitudes current
in america during these times. Having a love for music, and for the
meanings behind the songs, I find this website a refreshing and welcome
break from the normal attitude of "it's just a song". Thanks for taking
the time.
Michael Dellinger <dellingerms@13meu.usmc.mil>
USA
I love the song. I am an English teacher, here in
Israel, and I sing it with my class.
Meirav Green
p.o.box 8199 Petach-Tikva 49181 Israel
I heard about this site from my brother-in-law. It
was very enlightening to read. I appreciate your efforts and research.
I may have perceived a couple parts differently, but what food for thought!
Thanks
KBernatz
USA
i think that steve hoag is gay
god <god@yahoo.com>
the song is good but the modana version is bad
george <sdh81@aol.com>
us
I listened to this song as a teenager,and i liked
it then for its musical content.I knew there was more of a story behind
the words than I could interpret.Now that there is more meaning to the
words,I enjoy it even more.Thanks1
Woody Mitchell <woodstoc@datasync.com>
U.S.A.
very interesting and thought provoking.great job!!!
w l brown <wbrown122@hotmail.com>
usa
Great site!!!
Karen S. Carter <KSCarter@AOL.com>
USA
I think American Pie is one of the best songs ever
made. I love you web site because it tells what all happened. Only if
more sites did what you did here. Thanks.
Jennifer <JenNell83@aol.com>
USA
Very moving. Just when you think you've grown up,
it all comes rushing back to you. I have many interests such as film
and music. I am most interested in what was going on in the actual lives
of these people.
Alan Pippenger <pipps@nettally.com>
USA
American Pie is one of my dads favorite songs and
so I grew up listening to it, and until recently never really paid attention
to the songs lyrics. When I finally tuned in to what he was trying to
say, I was totally enthralled by his way of making the downfall of rock
n' roll so clear. I wonder what he would write about it now? Anyway,
thanks for the great and informative site.
Michele Westbrook <MicheleSedai@juno.com>
USA
I played in the folk clubs in the late 60's and early
70's, and American Pie was one of my numbers. I still play for a bit
of fun, and performed American Pie at my recent 50th birthday party
with my daughters soul band INSOUL, and the place was still heaving
and rocking. This is a timeless piece of music which everyone knows
and joins in. It is part of our generation and had a big influence on
my style of guitar playing and singing. I enjoyed your interpretation
and your site in general. Good Luck.
Martin Gibney <martin@gibneym.freeserve.co.uk>
SCOTLAND
Thanks for all the insights. It is the song of our
generation, isn't it? Following close in second place
would be We Didin't Start the Fire by Billy Joel.
God, I wihs I could write that well!
Leah in Alaska <fnlma1@uaf.edu>
USA
What a fantastic web-site. American Pie is my favourite
song of all time and yet I have only just come across this site! Your
interpretation was really interesting to read and has certainly improved
my knowledge of the song.
Thanks
Simon Lerwill <simonlerwill@hotmail.com>
England
Oh, forgot to add to the most recent signing of this
guestbook: Don McLean was **BORN** in New Rochelle, so he would have
known the bar known as "The Levee".
Marc
Marc Mullinax <mmullina@debevoise.com>
USA
Just one question:
Don McLean was born in New Rochelle, NY, where I used to teach college
(Iona College). There was a bar there known as "The Levee". But it closed,
meaning the "levee was dry."
Could this be a better interpretation than yours?
Marc Mullinax
Marc Mullinax <mmullina@debevoise.com>
USA
Great Site Saul - I've been a fan of DM since 1972
and got to meet him for the first time in June this year in London.
A truly great experience. Met up with a number of fans from Alan Howard's
OnLine fan club and we all had a great day, Don treated us to a 1 1/2
hour sound check and the concert later on was amongst the best I've
seen him play.
Just heard the Weird Al version of AP thru' your site. Great stuff!
Keep up the good work.
Dave Cook <david.cook16@ntlworld.com>
UK
I am using your information for a school research
project
D <dcamato@usa.net>
USA
A very interesting and thorough interpretation. I
wonder if Madonna has any notions about that.
Jürgen Schreck <j_schreck@gmx.de>
Germany
I was really wonder what this song was talking about,
it`s really dificult to understand if you are not american, Thankyou!!!
irina.
irina <irinaferrater@hotmail.com>
spain
Thanks for the the interpretation. I've struggled
for many years about the meaning of this song.
Thanks again.
Kenneth Barron <kbarron798@aol.com>
USA
i had to do an assignment for school where i had to
anaylize the lyrics of a song, and i had no idea how complicated american
pie was, your site helped A LOT!! thanks!!
Emily <etfropro13@hotmail.com>
usa
Really a nice site, thanks for the effort, I wish
I had
more insite into what was really on Don's mind when he wrote
this wonderful music and words!
Does anyone have any insite into why he did not want to perform
By By etc. later on!
ralph
ralph forbes <ralph@ocea.es>
Spain
Great interpretation of American Pie. Congratulations!
Michael Schell <m.schell@surfeu.at>
Austria
I enjoyed your interpretation of the song and think
it is probably fairly accurate. Don McLean is coming to our area for
a concert next month and I was just reading up on him and his famous
song.
Ed Wittenberg <Rollined@aol.com>
Ohio (USA)
Great site! You have definitely filled in alot of
gaps for me. I will be seen here again..
Have a great day..
Inky
Inky <JVIGILJACOBS@AOL.COM>
USA
I found your site after specifically searching for
one on the meaning of the song. I remember the days of 45's, and had
a copy of it when I was little, and remember hating to have to turn
the record over to hear the rest of it. And, it seemed that this was
one of the 45's the record store always had in stock, as it was a perrenial
seller.
I have read many comments from other folk regarding the Madonna version
of the song, and their defense of it. I have to say, I don't agree with
them. This is one of the few songs around that should never have been
covered. And, from a DJ's perspective, knowing Madonna's history from
its beginning, I can only see her reason for doing a cover of this as
one where she wanted to (as always) stir up controversy by taking an
American Icon and reworking it to fit into her warped little world.
Thanks for the interesting site.
Bob
Bob Isgett <SpaceCadetBob@yahoo.com>
USA
Wicked wicked site mate, I was looking for an explanation
to the song, cos I couldn't decide whether it was about something more
sordid - the devil or something, but now it's all become clear.
Either you're very clever or you did a lot of research for this song!
Nice one.
Matt Drury <matthias0198@hotmail.com>
UK
This was by far the most informative web site I've
ever seen on "Behind the scenes". You put VH1 to shame!!! Thanks for
the great story to a most bewildering tune.
theodas <theodas@mail.com>
US
I thought your sight was a real insight into the song,
I really enjoyed reading it! I also thought that the 'widow' reference
in the opening verses could have been about Jackie Kennedy- but you
probably know better than me!
Thank You
Cat
Cat Saunders <catx99@hotmail.com>
England
I am 43 and American Pie has always been a great favorite
of mine. I remember studying the lyrics in high school and from what
I remember your interpretations are almost identical to what we were
taught. It is a brilliant song, one of the all-time classics in my opinion.
There are not many songs that have such depth. You have put together
a great website and I will reccommend it to others. I look forward to
reading more interpretations. Thanks.
Alan <The-Weston-Wilsons@xtra.co.nz>
New Zealand
Very nice website. I'm in 8th grade and one of my
electives,
the 60's, used this site to give us an understanding of the
song and what it meant. pretty neat that you can understand
it all.
davis
usa
Great page,Thnx for the lyrics.Oh if you find out
whether its
LENNON or LENIN please let me know.
Andrew Rice <hash_420@hotmail.com>
Canada,eh
Hello...
came across this website as i was searching for the lyrics of the song.....think
this is a great site......well done mate!...i remember listening to
"Vincent" when i was a kid and thought how good a song sound so good?.....then
i heard american pie but couldn't understand it...being asian i probably
will never fully understand it....but your interpretations is interesting......
Norman <liewnorman@hotmail.com>
Australia
Just like to say that American pie is the best thing
ever. And pi is 3.14159265 (approx)
Bobo <brgess@hotmail.com>
England
I think that this kind of artistic creativity is what
is lacking in today's commercial pop music.
Heather <oompdawg@yahoo.com>
good ol U.S.A.
great work, interesting links.
Thanks!
Martin Jauch <mjauch@mus.ch>
switzerland
I was just looking for the lirycs, and the search
brougth me here. In the first place I was just trying to understand
the words, but this also gave me the oportunity to understand the meaning
(at least your interpretation) which kind of surprised me,'cause I didn't
expect it to be so deep, but anyway, I like it, so thanks.
Max Rodriguez R <Mrodri@mantis.co.cr>
Costa Rica, (central America)
This seems to be a rather accurate and revealing interpreatation
of possibly the gratest song ever written. Your simplistic lexis and
illustrated style of presentation makes the site easy to comprehend,
even if some of the understandings of the lyrics are verging on the
obscure. Thank you and good luck with future song interpretations.
Mark <fatmanstevo@hotmail.com>
England
great site I found it interesting, the song has been
a favorite
of mine for well over ten years and has alot of memories for me
thanks nadnz
Nadnz <nadnz@yahoo.com>
New Zealand
I realy like your song , American Pie. I am in singing
lessons, and I am learning your song. I am Ten years old.
Lauren Cromartie <w2kool_lauren15@hotmail.com>
canada
great site!! thanx for the info
jim czarnecki <theczar007@hotmail.com>
usa
I'm 16 and i have been a fan of that song for a very
long time. I think Madonna BUTCHERED it.
This is a top site, i remember meeting a guy a few years back on a trip
down the coast who put this song on and then proceeded to do a similar
analysis to this one. You both seem pretty spot on. This site is nicely
complemented with links and photos. Well done
Erin White <winnifred83@hotmail.com>
Australia
I'm 16 and i have been a fan of that son for a very
long time. I think Madonna BUTCHERED it.
This is a top site, i remember meeting a guy a few years back on a trip
down the coast who put this song on and then proceeded to do a similar
analysis to this one. You both seem pretty spot on. This site is nicely
complemented with links and photos. Well done
Erin White <winnifred83@hotmail.com>
Australia
Few songs have been as intriguing for me as "American
Pie", whose meaning I could never quite understand not only because
I didn't know about the hidden meanings of the lyrics but, more importantly,
because I couldn't understand the words sung - my mother tongue is not
English but Spanish.
I was just looking for the lyrics as I had heard the song yesterday
once again and that made me feel eager to understand what the singer
was saying.
Funnily enough, I not only get the words but also an interpretation
of what he meant to say.
Thankyou!
Ignacio
P.S.: I used "All the web" to look for the song (http://www.ussc.alltheweb.com)
Ignacio Bengoechea <ignaciobengoechea@yahoo.com>
Spain
This makes for very interesting reading. You obviously
put a lot thought and research into the interpreting of the verses of
this classic song. Your explainations and speculations helped me to
better understand where Don was coming from. Thanks!
Celeste Miller <sillygal765@hotmail.com>
USA
Fun Site! A fitting tribute. "American Pie" is my
Birthsong.
Holly Cordova <DivadjHollyC@AOL>
U.S.A.
I used this site as a reference for a paper in my
college class titled "The History of Rock and Roll". Thanks for the
interpertation. It was very useful.
Ginger Shank <gingeratccc@yahoo>
United States
Great stuff. I Always wondered about it, the song
tells a story with alot of possible interpretations. I always thought
the marching band was the draft board/military, and that people were
focused on the war, not music. Well, I guess thats what makes it a great
song. I feel Madonnas version lacks the sadness the song makes you feel.
Her version sounds like a christmas carol. Great site c ya
Alex
Alex Langstraat <aljolang@aol.com>
United States
I was so happy to have found a web site that interprets
and explains this song. My father really likes this song and plays it
all the time, but I never understood it. I always wanted to know what
it was really saying and meaning. Thank you so much!
Marcie Gonzalez <sophomorebabe22@cs.com>
USA
Great site-put the question out to my friends as to
the meaning of "American Pie" and one found your site-will pass it on!
Great work!!
Dennis Brooke <vuu73@aol.com>
Naperville,IL USA
I really enjoyed the intrepretation of the song.
Keith Warren <kwarren@MAPA.gov.nf.ca>
Canada
I really liked the site. I've loved this song for
ever and always puzzled over the meaning behind it though I must admit
I never went into as much depth as you did. It's good to see that real
music lives on.
Thank you
Bec Hill <bec182@hotmail.com>
Australia
very insightfil
Robert M. Harkins <DRMIKEDMD@AOL.COM>
usa
question.....is there any interpretation of the song
"whiter shade of pale" anywhere?
Montey <basicologist@aol.com>
U.S.
Awesome...Thanks for taking the time.
Caroline <Carolinenot@aol.com>
USA