The return of Pan
Waterboys · Other Songs - Waterboys
The return of Pan :: Waterboys
I stood upon the balcony with my brand new bride
the clink of bells came drifting down the mountainside
When in our sight something moved
- lightning eyed and cloven hooved -
The great god Pan is alive!
He moves amid the modern world in disguise
it's possible to look into his immortal eyes
He's like a man you'd meet anyplace
Until you recognise that ancient face
The great god Pan is alive!
At sea on a ship in a thunder storm
on the very night that Christ was born
A sailor heard from overhead
a mighty voice cry "Pan is dead!"
So follow Christ as best you can
Pan is dead! Long Live Pan!
From the olden days and up through all the years
from Arcadia to the stone fields of Inisheer
Some say the Gods are just a myth
but guess who I've been dancing with
The great god Pan is alive!
I stood upon the balcony with my brand new bride
the clink of bells came drifting down the mountainside
When in our sight something moved
- lightning eyed and cloven hooved -
The great god Pan is alive!
He moves amid the modern world in disguise
it's possible to look into his immortal eyes
He's like a man you'd meet anyplace
Until you recognise that ancient face
The great god Pan is alive!
At sea on a ship in a thunder storm
on the very night that Christ was born
A sailor heard from overhead
a mighty voice cry "Pan is dead!"
So follow Christ as best you can
Pan is dead! Long Live Pan!
From the olden days and up through all the years
from Arcadia to the stone fields of Inisheer
Some say the Gods are just a myth
but guess who I've been dancing with
The great god Pan is alive!
The Return of Pan
Released by The Waterboys, 'The Return of Pan' stands as a defining track from their 1984 debut album, A Pagan Place. The song exemplifies the band's signature blend of psychedelic rock, new wave, and theatrical storytelling that characterized their early career. Featuring the distinctive vocals of Mike Scott and intricate guitar work, the recording captures the chaotic energy and surreal imagery that became hallmarks of the group's sound during the mid-1980s. As a key piece in their discography, it reflects the era's fascination with occult themes and experimental pop structures, cementing The Waterboys' reputation as innovators within the British indie scene.