Silver Raven (Acoustic Version) by Gene Clark

Silver Raven (acoustic version) by Gene Clark from the No Other Album, 1974

Gene Clark had Native American heritage that became a more significant influence as he matured. The acoustic version of Silver Raven has the tone and cadence of a tribal chant. He sings of spiritual unity with the elements, and acceptance of man's destiny. For him the Silver Raven is a prophet bringing visions of the future and warnings of catastrophic events.

I prefer this acoustic version of the song to the more elaborate version that appeared on Gene Clark's 1974 album, No Other. I believe the simplicity of the acoustic arrangement accentuates Gene's foreboding lyrics, mystical imagery and ethereal vocal delivery.

Lyrics

Have you seen the silver raven? She has wings and she can fly.
Far above the darkened waters, far above the troubled sky.
Have you seen the changing rivers? Now they wait their turn to die.
But they turn their tide upon you when the sea begins to cry.
Have you seen the changing windows of the sea beyond the stars?
And the sky beyond the sunbeams, and the world beyond your dreams?
Have you seen the old world dying which was once what new worlds seem?
Have you seen the silver raven? She has wings that barely gleam.
They barely gleam; they barely glimmer, as she circles past the sun.
And she tries to tell her sister that her trials have just begun.