The Wreck of the Arthur Lee
Robyn Hitchcock · Respect [1993]
Will never return again
The captain and all his men
Went up and jumped overboard
"Jesus is Lord!" they cried
Believe in love!
Believe in love
And I'll believe in you
The missing Avenger planes
Will never return to base
Don't you wait up for them
How often have you boys said
"I ain't gonna bump no more"?
"We ain't gonna bump no more!"
Believe in love! Believe in love!
And I'll believe if you'll believe in me
I got home
There was nobody there
Just the phone
Let it ring in the air
But it's home
The wreck of the Arthur Lee
Will never return again
Never return again
The Wreck of the Arthur Lee
Robyn Hitchcock's 'The Wreck of the Arthur Lee' stands as a poignant tribute to the legendary Love frontman, capturing the melancholic spirit that defines much of Hitchcock's solo catalog. Released on the 1993 album Respect, the track showcases the artist's signature blend of psychedelic rock and introspective lyricism. Hitchcock has long been celebrated for his ability to weave surreal narratives with deeply personal emotions, a skill evident in this recording. The song reflects the enduring influence of Arthur Lee on the British indie scene, highlighting how Hitchcock channels the legacy of his American contemporaries. As part of a prolific discography that spans decades, this piece remains a testament to Hitchcock's consistent exploration of memory, loss, and musical homage within the alternative rock genre.