Veteran of the Psychic Wars

Blue Öyster Cult

About Veteran of the Psychic Wars

"Veteran of the Psychic Wars" is a song by the American hard rock band Blue Öyster Cult, written by Eric Bloom and British author Michael Moorcock (creator of Elric of Melniboné). The song first appeared on the album Fire of Unknown Origin from 1981; an extended live version appears on the 1982 album Extraterrestrial Live. It also appears on the soundtrack of the 1981 animated film Heavy Metal. The phrase "...veteran of a Thousand Psychic Wars" is from the Hawkwind song "Standing at the Edge," from the album Warrior on the Edge of Time (1975), which also dealt with the myth of the Eternal Champion and contained lyrics written by Moorcock. Prior to that, it appears as a line in the poem "Far Arden" by Jim Morrison of The Doors. The song has been covered by the Finnish metal band Tarot, Metallica at the Bridge School Benefit, and Arjen Anthony Lucassen. 


Year:
1981
15 

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You're seeing now a veteran of a thousand psychic wars,
I've been living on the edge so long, where the winds of Limbo roar.
And I'm young enough to look at,
And far old to see, all the stars are on the inside.
I'm not sure that's there's anything left to me

Don't let these shakes go on!
It's time we had a break from it,
It's time we had some leave.
We've been living in a place,
We've been eating up our brains.
Oh please don't let these shakes go on!

You ask me why I'm willing, why I can't speak to you,
You blame me for my silence, saying it's time I changed and grew.
But the wars still going on dear,
And there's no one that I know.
And I can't stand forever.

I can't say if were ever gonna be free,
Don't let these shakes go on!
It's time we had a break from it,
It's time we had some leave.
We've been living in a place,
We've been eating up our brains,
Oh please don't let these shakes go on!

You're seeing now a veteran of a thousand psychic wars,
My energy is spent at last, and my armor is destroyed,
I have used up all my weapons, and I'm helpless and bereaved.

Wounds are all I'm made of!
Did I hear you say that this is victory?
Don't let these shakes go on!
It's time we had a break from it,Send me to the rear!
Where the title madness swell,
And been sliding into Hell.

Oh please don't let these shakes go on!
Don't let these shakes go on
Don't let these shakes go on!

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Blue Öyster Cult

Blue Öyster Cult (often abbreviated BÖC) are an American rock band from Long Island, New York, United States, best known for such hard rock songs as "(Don't Fear) The Reaper", "Burnin' for You", and "Godzilla". Since the release of their self-titled debut album in 1972, the band has sold over 24 million albums worldwide, including 7 million in the United States alone.[citation needed] The band's music videos, especially "Burnin' for You", received heavy rotation on MTV when the music television network premiered in 1981, cementing the band's contribution to the development and success of the music video in modern pop culture. Today, BÖC's music continues to be played on AOR-friendly radio stations as well as in movies, … more »

7 fans

Written by: MICHAEL MOORCOCK

Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Band Identification
"Veteran of the Psychic Wars" is a song by Blue Öyster Cult, an American rock band that was formed in 1967 and is often associated with the hard rock and heavy metal genre.
Album Release
The song was included in the band's eight studio album, 'Fire of Unknown Origin', which was released in 1981.
Michael Moorcock
The lyrics of "Veteran of the Psychic Wars" were penned by the British science-fiction and fantasy author Michael Moorcock, making it a notable collaboration between rock musicians and a literature author.
Science Fiction Influence
The song is deeply influenced by sci-fi themes typical of Moorcock's work, particularly his 'Elric of Melniboné' series.
Track Position
"Veteran of the Psychic Wars" is the second track on their 'Fire of Unknown Origin' album.
Uniqueness
The song was unique in the Blue Öyster Cult's repertoire for its synthesizer-led sound, departing from their more traditional guitar-based rock.
Heavy Metal Connection
With its references to cosmic battles and inner struggle, the song has often been seen as an early example of the intersection between heavy metal music and science fiction.
Other Usages
"Veteran of the Psychic Wars" was also included in the animated film 'Heavy Metal' released in 1981, showcasing the band's cultural influence beyond just rock music.
Critical Perception
It's recognized by many critics and fans as one of Blue Öyster Cult's best songs, despite not reaching the same level of popular success as some of their other hits.
Awards & Recognition
The song was nominated for a Hugo award, a significant achievement considering that this prize is typically given for exquisite work in science fiction and fantasy fields.

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