Meaning of "Einstein Was A Surfer" by Jimmy Buffett

The lyrics of "Einstein Was A Surfer" convey a sense of awe and wonder towards Einstein and his connection to the universe. By describing him as a surfer, the song highlights his ability to ride the waves of knowledge and understanding. Just as surfers seek out the perfect break, Einstein sought out the perfect understanding of the universe. The mention of his image standing by the ocean in 1943 reflects the timelessness of his genius and the vastness of the cosmos he explored.

The song also touches on the power of music and its ability to bridge gaps between near and distant worlds. The mention of bass notes from the chasm and black holes humming b-flat suggest a universal language that can be understood by all, from street cats to astronauts. Music becomes a metaphor for the underlying harmony and order of the universe, even in its most chaotic aspects.

The theme of order to disorder runs through the lyrics, echoing Einstein's discoveries in the field of physics. The mention of order turning to disorder and the idea that "light speed is all you need to pass the future by" suggests that in the grand scheme of the universe, chaos and change are inevitable. However, the song suggests that surfers, like Einstein, have the ability to navigate this path and find harmony within the chaos.

Ultimately, "Einstein Was A Surfer" celebrates the pursuit of knowledge, the beauty of the universe, and the idea that surfers are akin to explorers of the unknown. It suggests that by embracing the unknown, navigating through chaos, and finding the perfect path, one can connect with the timeless wisdom that exists where time and the universe converge.