The Virgina Company (Complete)

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a picture of English settlers in 1607, driven by a potent mix of ambition and propaganda. They set sail for the New World with grand visions of riches and freedom, fueled by promises from "The Virginia Company." This initial optimism is palpable, suggesting a collective belief in a land of unparalleled opportunity, where wealth is almost casually attainable. The central tension lies between the idealized vision and the harsh reality that the lyrics subtly hint at. The repeated phrase "Or so we have been told" casts a shadow of doubt over the grand pronouncements about diamonds and gold. This repeated refrain underscores a potential disconnect between the company's marketing and the settlers' actual prospects, creating an undercurrent of unease beneath the surface enthusiasm. The most striking element is the stark contrast between the settlers' lofty motivations – "glory, God, and gold" – and the brutal, dehumanizing sentiment expressed later: "We'll kill ourselves an Injun." This abrupt shift reveals a dark undercurrent of colonial violence and entitlement, juxtaposed sharply against the religious and economic justifications for their venture. The casual mention of picking gold "off a tree" further highlights the fantastical, almost naive, expectations that mask a more sinister agenda. These lyrics are effective because they capture a specific historical moment's fervent, almost delusional, hope alongside its inherent brutality. The repetition of "The Virginia Company" acts as an anchor, reminding the listener of the entity orchestrating these dreams and potential nightmares. The song’s power comes from this unvarnished portrayal of ambition, deception, and the violent dispossession that often accompanied such ventures.