What Is the Meaning Behind Werewolves of London?

By Alice Nichols

Werewolves of London is a classic rock song that was released by Warren Zevon in 1978. It is a popular song that has been covered by several artists over the years.

The song is about werewolves that roam the streets of London and the people who encounter them. But what is the meaning behind Werewolves of London? Let’s take a closer look.

The Lyrics

The lyrics of Werewolves of London are quite simple and straightforward. The chorus goes like this:

Aaoo werewolves of London
Aaoo werewolves of London

The verses describe different encounters with werewolves in various parts of the city, such as:

  • I saw a werewolf drinking a pina colada at Trader Vic’s
  • Werewolves of London again
  • Little old lady got mutilated late last night
  • Werewolves of London again
  • I’d like to meet his tailor
  • Werewolves of London again

The Meaning Behind the Song

The meaning behind Werewolves of London is not clear-cut, but there are some interpretations that have been proposed over the years.

One interpretation is that the song is a commentary on British society in the late 1970s. At the time, there were many social and economic problems in Britain, and some people felt like they were living in a kind of urban jungle where they had to be on guard all the time. The werewolf could be seen as a symbol for this sense of danger and unpredictability.

Another interpretation is more personal to Warren Zevon himself. Zevon struggled with alcoholism throughout his life, and some people believe that the song is a reflection of his own experience with addiction. The werewolf could be seen as a metaphor for the uncontrollable and destructive aspects of addiction.

The Legacy of Werewolves of London

Regardless of its meaning, Werewolves of London has become a classic rock song that is loved by many people around the world. It has been covered by several artists, including Adam Sandler, Kid Rock, and Grateful Dead. It has also been featured in several movies and TV shows, such as American Werewolf in London and The Color of Money.

In conclusion, Werewolves of London is a classic rock song with simple lyrics that have been interpreted in several ways over the years. Whether it is about British society or addiction, the song has become an iconic piece of music that continues to be loved by many people around the world.