AboutAmy Maloney Expertise I have studied the band for going on 30 years now. I have met the remaining members of Zep, along with some of their neighborhood friends and some of their family members. My knowledge about them is probably strongest in the area of biography, personalities, song meanings, influences, etc. I may not be well versed in various technical aspects of various recording equipment, instrument details, or any info on how to play the music, as I am not a musician. I am mostly a fan who has been reading about them, collecting, and has met them numerous times in the last 25 years. If I don't know an answer I have lots of resources and references to look up!
Experience Been studying the band since 1977.
Organizations N/A
Publications N/A
Education/Credentials Bachelors of Arts, University of MD.
Writing, Teaching, Travel Agent, Yoga.
Question Hey, I was just wondering if you could tell me a web site, or just tell me on here, what song are based on "Lord of the Rings" and how? Thank you very much!
Answer Hi Darion,
Here they are (anyone out there please add songs if I've forgotten any):
Ramble On - Plant uses the analogy of a dark unhappy place as "Mordor" and his girl was stolen by "Gollum", or - an adversary.
Also in the song is the theme of leaves falling and needing to travel on, which was a primary storyline in the trilogy.
Battle of Evermore - "Dark Lord" and "Ringwraiths" refer back to the battles in the trilogy, but this song also was influenced by Robert's interest in Scottish & Welsh history, and battles against invaders.
Misty Mountain Hop - The Misty Mountains were the location of many a trial and adventure for the characters in the books. In Robert's life, the Misty Mountains refer to the West Country, or Wales - a place where he frequently visits, has a home, and a great affection for. (Plant pretty much loves mountains anywhere.)
Stairway to Heaven - doesn't have specific references, but its romantic nature, and references such as "smoke through the trees" is, I think, another nod to Robert's love of Tolkien, mysticism, the pastoral, and the historical.
I think there are more, but my brain is tired and have forgotten!
