Meaning of "Ask the Angels" by Patti Smith

The lyrics of "Ask the Angels" by Patti Smith convey a sense of rebellion and urgency. The narrator is calling for action and demanding to know who the angels are calling and what their intentions are. This can be interpreted as a metaphor for a higher power or a force of change. The narrator has a strong intuition about something impending, as they mention feeling it crawl across the floor. It's as if they can sense a significant event or uprising on the horizon.

The mention of "reelin'" and wanting to be reeling implies a desire for a transformative experience. This could be a desire for personal growth or a collective movement towards change. The repetition of the word "wild" emphasizes the intense and untamed nature of this feeling. The narrator believes that the call is for war, suggesting that there is a need for a fight or a resistance against something. It could be interpreted as a call to shake off complacency and actively work towards a better future.

The lyrics also express a sense of unity and a shared feeling among people. The narrator believes that everybody has this feeling, and it is growing stronger each day. This can be seen as a call for solidarity, encouraging people to come together and act as a collective force. The mention of people rising from the highway suggests a grassroots movement, symbolizing the power of the people to bring about change.

The reference to Armageddon and the idea that it's just the beginning conveys a sense of impending doom. However, it also implies a rebirth or a new beginning. The mention of rock and roll as the narrator's true purpose and identity reinforces the idea that music and art can be powerful tools for resistance and transformation. It suggests that through creativity and expression, a revolution can be sparked.

Overall, the lyrics of "Ask the Angels" encapsulate a sense of urgency, rebellion, and the need for collective action. It's a call to be aware of the signs and to actively participate in shaping the future. The song suggests that there is power in unity, and by embracing our true selves and passions, we can overcome adversity and bring about change.