Meaning of "The Jungle Line" by Herbie Hancock

The lyrics of "The Jungle Line" by Herbie Hancock explore the clash between nature and human progress, using the figure of Rousseau and jazz music as a central motif. The reference to Rousseau, a French artist known for his idealized paintings of nature, suggests a longing for a simpler, more authentic way of life that is increasingly being eroded by modernity. The jungle line symbolizes the relentless march of industrialization and urbanization, cutting through different landscapes and cultures indiscriminately. The vivid imagery of cannibals, pretty women, and poppy poison paints a picture of the harsh realities of the modern world, where beauty and danger coexist. Ultimately, the song questions the price of progress and the impact it has on both nature and human society.