Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: psych-rock
Song Meaning of “Scarlet Begonias / Fire on the Mountain – Live at Manor Downs, Austin, TX 7/31/1982” by Grateful Dead
Scarlet Begonias/Fire on the Mountain is a classic Grateful Dead song written by Jerry Garcia and Robert Hunter. The song itself is a reflection on the fireworks of life, with the lyrics comparing life to a great fire that is burning away in the horizon with all its nuances and colors. The song reflects on the fleetingness of life and how although there is uncertainty and changes that come with it, it is the beauty in life that is the most precious. The live version recorded at Manor Downs in Austin, Texas in 1982 gives us an extra sparkle to the performance that captures the spirit of the Grateful Dead and how the band can expertly enliven its audience even in just a live performance. This live version is an indication of just how passionate and incredible the band is and how they can move both musically and emotionally in just one performance. While the song may reflect the uncertainty of life, one thing certain is that the beauty and fire of life makes things worth the trouble.