Meaning of "Land Ho!" by The Doors

"Land Ho!" is a song that captures the spirit of adventure and the longing for freedom. The narrator's grandparents, depicted as sailors, symbolize the yearning for a life unconstrained by the limitations of land. The sailor longs to be untethered, away from the "crazy" life on land, and seeks the companionship of his fellow shipmates. The mention of "foreign sands" suggests a desire for exploration and the allure of the unknown. The old man's songs of "shady sisters" and "old-time liberty" represent a yearning for the unconventional and the freedom to express oneself. The repetition of "land ho" throughout the song serves as a rallying cry for the sailor's return to the sea, emphasizing his longing for the open waters and a life free from societal constraints.

The second half of the song takes a darker turn, shifting from the sailor's desires and nostalgia to a more sinister tone. The lyrics mention the narrator's intent to indulge in vices such as drinking and potentially harming others, with references to buying a bottle to drink and threatening to harm a woman ("skin that little girl alive"). This shift in tone could be interpreted as a manifestation of the sailor's frustration and pent-up aggression after being away from the sea for so long. The mention of a number five and number two could be symbolic of specific objects or individuals that the sailor desires, which are left open to interpretation. The song ends with a declaration of love, suggesting that despite the darker undertones, the sailor still holds a deep affection for someone back home and intends to express it upon his return.

Overall, "Land Ho!" reflects on the longing for freedom, adventure, and the untamed spirit of the sea. It explores themes of nostalgia, rebellion against societal norms, and the dual nature of human desires.