The Meaning Behind George Harrison’s “Beware of Darkness”
George Harrison - albumania / YouTube
While overshadowed by its chart-topping siblings on George Harrison’s monumental All Things Must Pass, “Beware of Darkness” has quietly earned its place as a fan favorite.
This powerful ballad transcends the realm of catchy pop tunes, offering a glimpse into Harrison’s introspective songwriting and his newfound creative freedom after leaving The Beatles.
Beyond the song’s captivating melody and enigmatic lyrics lies a fascinating story waiting to be unraveled. Delving into the meaning behind “Beware of Darkness”, we’ll explore the themes that resonated with Harrison and the journey that led him to create this masterpiece.
Additionally, we’ll uncover the impressive collaboration that brought the song and the entire All Things Must Pass album to life, featuring a veritable who’s who of the music world.
The Quiet Beatle’s post-Beatles explosion
George shattered the image of the “quiet Beatle” with the thunderous arrival of All Things Must Pass in 1970. Few imagined him outpacing John Lennon and Paul McCartney in the solo race post-Beatles. Yet, in retrospect, it seems inevitable.
Harrison had penned “Something” and “Here Comes the Sun”, arguably the best songs on their final album, Abbey Road, showcasing his creative peak. He also harbored a wealth of unreleased material, having been limited to one or two songs per Beatles record. All Things Must Pass became a haven for these gems.
Beyond personal expression, Harrison possessed a wellspring of ideas on profound themes like spirituality, relationships, and even mortality.
A natural seeker, his music echoed his introspective journey. “Beware of Darkness”, for instance, reflects his exploration of the Hare Krishna movement, evident in the line “Beware of Maya”, drawn directly from its teachings.
A powerhouse all-star lineup
Beyond its musical brilliance, All Things Must Pass showcased George Harrison’s immense respect and influence in the music world. The album boasts a who’s who of top musicians, each lending their talents to create a sonic masterpiece.
Producer Phil Spector, known for his “Wall of Sound” approach, piloted the project, taking it to another level of grandeur. On “Beware of Darkness” alone, an array of stars shines.
Eric Clapton graces the track with his electric guitar prowess, while future solo star Dave Mason adds warmth on acoustic guitar. Gary Wright, another future hitmaker, contributes his organ expertise. The song even features Ringo Starr’s signature drumming style, adding a familiar touch to the slower sections.
The story doesn’t end there. Bobby Whitlock on piano and Carl Radle on bass caught the attention of Eric Clapton, who later recruited them both for his band Derek and the Dominos. This group went on to produce the iconic hit “Layla”, solidifying the lasting impact of the All Things Must Pass collaborative spirit.
Unveiling the depths of “Beware of Darkness”
In “Beware of Darkness,” George Harrison delivers a powerful message, urging his listeners to prioritize life’s true essence and avoid distractions.
He employs metaphorical terms like “falling swingers,” “greedy leaders,” and “soft shoe shufflers” to represent forces that can divert us from our spiritual journey.
Failing to heed this warning, Harrison warns, can lead us down a path of despair and negativity. His voice soars in the bridge, emphasizing the urgency of staying true to our path. He cautions against the “darkness” that can “hurt” and “make you sore”, reminding us that it is not aligned with our ultimate purpose.
Beyond the stark warnings, the song also carries a subtle current of empathy. Harrison acknowledges “unconscious sufferers” caught in the darkness, adding a layer of compassion to his message.
“Beware of Darkness” is a profoundly thought-provoking piece, infused with soul and sincerity. It captures a moment in Harrison’s lifelong spiritual exploration, inviting listeners to share in his passionate journey.
