About the song
Donovan’s 1967 single, “There Is a Mountain,” is more than just a catchy pop song. It’s a profound exploration of Eastern philosophy, specifically Zen Buddhism, wrapped in a melodic and accessible package. The track stands as a testament to Donovan’s ability to blend complex philosophical concepts with a vibrant and youthful musical style.
The song’s lyrics are rooted in a Zen koan, a paradoxical riddle used in Zen training to provoke enlightenment. The koan in question, popularized by D.T. Suzuki, describes three stages of understanding: before enlightenment, during enlightenment, and after enlightenment. In the context of the song, the “mountain” symbolizes the ultimate truth or reality. Before spiritual awakening, the mountain is simply a mountain. Upon enlightenment, the individual realizes that the mountain is not what it seems and transcends conventional understanding. Finally, after achieving a deeper understanding, the mountain once again becomes a mountain, but this time, it is seen with a new perspective.
Donovan’s musical interpretation of this koan is both evocative and accessible. The gentle acoustic guitar and soothing harmonies create a meditative atmosphere that invites listeners to contemplate the deeper meaning of the lyrics. The song’s structure, with its repetitive chorus and verses, reinforces the cyclical nature of the Zen journey. Harold McNair’s flute solo adds a touch of ethereal beauty, elevating the song to a truly transcendent experience.
“There Is a Mountain” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles Chart. However, its enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect with listeners on a spiritual level. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, attesting to its timeless quality. It’s a testament to Donovan’s talent as a songwriter that he was able to take a complex philosophical concept and translate it into a popular song that continues to resonate with audiences today.
In conclusion, “There Is a Mountain” is more than just a piece of music; it’s a meditation on the nature of reality and the human experience. Donovan’s masterful songwriting and the song’s universal themes have ensured its place in the musical canon. It’s a song that invites listeners to explore the depths of their own consciousness and to seek a deeper understanding of the world around them.
Video
Lyrics
The lock upon my garden gate’s a snail, that’s what it is
The lock upon my garden gate’s a snail, that’s what it is
First there is a mountain, then there is no mountain, then there is
First there is a mountain, then there is no mountain, then there is
The caterpillar sheds his skin to find a butterfly within
Caterpillar sheds his skin to find a butterfly within
First there is a mountain, then there is no mountain, then there is
First there is a mountain, then there is no mountain
Oh Juanita, oh Juanita, oh Juanita, I call your name
Oh, the snow will be a blinding sight to see as it lies on yonder hillside
The lock upon my garden gate’s a snail, that’s what it is
The lock upon my garden gate’s a snail, that’s what it is
Caterpillar sheds his skin to find a butterfly within
Caterpillar sheds his skin to find a butterfly within
First there is a mountain, then there is no mountain, then there is
First there is a mountain, then there is no mountain, then there is
First there is a mountain, then there is no mountain, then there is
First there is a mountain, then there is no mountain, then there is
First there is a mountain