Wishbone Ash – Argus (1972) Album Review and Lyrical Analysis

 

"Argus", released by Wishbone Ash in 1972, stands as one of the most iconic albums of the early 1970s. Blending elements of progressive rock, hard rock, and folk, the album resonates with its innovative twin-guitar harmonies, intricate musicianship, and thematic depth. While not directly inspired by Greek mythology, *Argus* explores universal themes such as heroism, leadership, conflict, and personal growth, which echo mythological and historical tales—including those found in ancient Greek myths. The title *Argus* may evoke the Greek mythological figure Argus Panoptes, a hundred-eyed giant known for his watchfulness, though the album is more broadly inspired by the timeless struggles of warriors, kings, and seekers of wisdom.

1. "Time Was" : The opening track, "Time Was," is a journey of self-reflection and personal growth. It starts with a soft, acoustic arrangement before transitioning into a more powerful rock section. Lyrically, it reflects on the passage of time, personal mistakes, and the wisdom gained from past experiences, particularly in romantic relationships. The narrator looks back with maturity:

Key Themes: Learning from the past, emotional growth, and the passage of time.

2. "Sometime World": "Sometime World" captures a sense of longing and lost opportunities. The narrator expresses dissatisfaction with the passage of time but holds on to a sense of hope for a better future. The lyrics oscillate between resignation and optimism, creating a duality of emotions: "I’m not the same as I was before."

The song conveys a personal quest for meaning, a theme that aligns with the album's overarching exploration of life's journey.

3. "Blowin’ Free": One of the more upbeat and straightforward tracks on the album, "Blowin' Free" celebrates freedom, love, and adventure. The lyrics are romantic and carefree, contrasting with the introspective nature of other songs on the album. The imagery of open roads and boundless possibility captures the spirit of youthful love: "In my dreams, I'm in your arms", evokes a sense of warm nostalgia and adventure.

4. "The King Will Come": This song introduces grand, epic themes of leadership, prophecy, and conflict, often interpreted as a metaphor for power struggles, both ancient and modern. The lyrics hint at a king's return to bring order amidst chaos: "Battles raging, it’s a fight for the throne."

The song's themes of leadership and prophecy, with an air of mysticism, could evoke parallels with historical and mythological rulers, including those found in Greek mythology.

5. "Leaf and Stream": "Leaf and Stream" is a melancholic reflection on the transience of life. Using natural imagery, the song conveys feelings of loss and the inevitable passage of time. The connection to nature reflects the ebb and flow of life’s seasons: "I feel the seasons change" highlights both internal and external shifts, portraying the narrator as a contemplative figure facing life’s changes.

6. "Warrior" : "Warrior" stands out as a powerful track that delves into the themes of courage, resilience, and self-discovery. It depicts a lone figure—a warrior—fighting against overwhelming odds. The battle could symbolize both physical conflict and internal struggles, much like the trials faced by Greek mythological heroes such as Achilles or Odysseus. "I’m leaving to search for something new" suggests that the warrior’s quest is as much about seeking personal wisdom as it is about victory.

This track mirrors the classic archetypal hero's journey, making it one of the album's most enduring and powerful songs.

7. "Throw Down the Sword" : The album closes with "Throw Down the Sword," offering a sense of resolution after the battles depicted throughout "Argus". The lyrics encourage an end to conflict and the acceptance of peace, whether it be in literal warfare or personal turmoil: "Now that the battle's done"*reflects the idea of laying down arms and moving toward inner peace after a tumultuous journey.

 

The song’s conclusion evokes the idea of a warrior, like those in Greek mythology, who returns from battle wiser and more at peace with the world.

Conclusion:

"Argus" is a timeless masterpiece, weaving together themes of personal growth, conflict, nature, and the passage of time. While not explicitly based on Greek mythology, its exploration of heroism, battles, leadership, and self-discovery is reminiscent of mythological tales, particularly the archetypal hero’s journey. Wishbone Ash's intricate guitar harmonies and evocative lyrics make *Argus* not only a musical triumph but a thought-provoking and deeply emotional journey, rich with mythological undertones and timeless themes.

Nick Parastatidis