Meaning of "Amsterdam" by John Martyn

"Amsterdam" by John Martyn seems to convey a sense of loss, grief, and the aftermath of a tragic event. The repetition of the night the kid left Amsterdam emphasizes the impact of the departure and the confusion felt by those left behind. The imagery of ladies around a casket and whores lying on a bed suggest a combination of mourning and vulnerability, adding a sense of melancholy to the narrative. The mention of Mad Jack, little tiny long-haired Hugh, and the hustling boys admiring the view creates a contrast between the innocence and the harsh realities of life, further highlighting the complex emotions presented. The repeated refrain of "There was nobody who could understand why" underlines the incomprehensibility of the event, leaving both the characters and the listener questioning the circumstances surrounding the kid's departure. The final lines detailing the narrator's resolve to move on and the acknowledgment of wasted love scattered across the floor hint at acceptance and the need to embrace change despite the pain it brings.