The narrator speaks to a group of starfish in the ocean, asking for information about a banjo man with a tattoo on his hand. The starfish play games with the narrator, eventually revealing that the banjo man is in Belgium and inviting the narrator to come and meet him.

Meaning of "Epistle to Derroll" by Donovan

The lyrics of "Epistle to Derroll" by Donovan evoke a sense of curiosity and adventure as the narrator tries to uncover the mystery of the banjo man with the tattooed hand. The conversation with the starfish can be seen as a metaphor for seeking knowledge and discovering hidden truths. The starfish, with their mystical and enigmatic nature, represent the unknown aspects of life that we are constantly trying to understand. The banjo man, a figure shrouded in mystery, symbolizes a sense of longing for something unfamiliar and perhaps unattainable. The narrator's journey to find the banjo man reflects the human desire for exploration and the pursuit of new experiences. Ultimately, the song invites listeners to embrace the unknown and follow their curiosity, even if the journey may lead to unexpected places.