Donovan – Season of the Witch (1966)

Stepping back into the psychedelic swirl of the 1960s, we find Donovan’s enigmatic ballad, “Season of the Witch”. Released in 1966 on his album Sunshine Superman, this song quickly became a signature tune for the Scottish singer-songwriter. While its exact meaning remains open to interpretation, “Season of the Witch” has endured as a haunting and atmospheric exploration of paranoia and unease.

The song’s authorship is a bit of a mystery. Credited to Donovan, his sometime collaborator Shawn Phillips has also claimed involvement. Regardless, the song’s power lies in its evocative imagery and hypnotic melody. The opening lines, “When I look out my window / So many sights to see / And when I look in my window / So many different people to be,” establish a sense of duality and disorientation. The lyrics that follow paint a picture of a world seemingly on edge, filled with uncertainty and a touch of the bizarre.

Donovan’s vocals, a blend of folk and rock influences, perfectly capture the song’s unsettling mood. The melody, built around a simple acoustic guitar line and punctuated by swirling organ and percussion, creates a mesmerizing soundscape. The repeated refrain of “Must be the season of the witch” serves as a haunting mantra, leaving the listener to ponder the song’s deeper meaning.

“Season of the Witch” wasn’t a chart-topping hit, but it resonated with listeners drawn to the burgeoning counterculture movement. The song’s ambiguous lyrics and psychedelic atmosphere tapped into a growing sense of social and political unease during the Vietnam War era. It became an anthem for those questioning authority and societal norms.

The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke a mood rather than tell a specific story. The listener is invited to interpret the “season of the witch” as they see fit – a time of fear, suspicion, or perhaps even a call for personal transformation. “Season of the Witch” continues to be a cult classic, covered by numerous artists and featured in films and television shows that explore themes of mystery and the supernatural.

“Season of the Witch” is more than just a psychedelic rock song; it’s a cultural touchstone of the 1960s. It’s a reminder of a time of social upheaval and a testament to the power of music to evoke emotions and inspire introspection. With its haunting melody, evocative lyrics, and enduring mystery, “Season of the Witch” is sure to remain a captivating listen for generations to come.