Six String Orchestra: A Study of Musical Ambition and Failure
In the narrative songwriting of Harry Chapin, the song "Six String Orchestra" serves as a poignant and ironic exploration of blind ambition. The story follows a young man who believes he is on the cusp of stardom, armed with nothing but a budget guitar he grandiosely names his monophonic symphony six-string orchestra. While the narrator views himself as a future star, the reality of his musical ability tells a very different story.
The Dream of Stardom
The narrator begins his journey in the solitude of his bedroom, practicing late into the night. His lack of immediate success is overlooked by his mother, who suggests he has not yet achieved anything significant enough to warrant news being sent home to relatives. This early stage of his journey establishes a pattern of delusional optimism in the face of mediocrity.
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The Reality of Performance
As the narrator moves from his bedroom to public stages, the gap between his perception and reality widens. During talent nights, his performances are met with polite applause, but the audience's patience evaporates during his attempts at encores, where he is literally screamed off the stage.
The Fantasy Refrain
The song utilizes a recurring refrain to illustrate the narrator's internal fantasy. In his mind, he is supported by a full ensemble consisting of a bass guitar, a lead guitar, a drum set, and strings. In this imagined scenario, his singing improves and the music swells. However, the fantasy is abruptly cut short; just before the word "orchestra" is uttered, the imaginary instruments stop, leaving the narrator alone and struggling with his instrument.
A Series of Professional Failures
The narrator's lack of talent extends beyond the stage and into his personal and professional pursuits. His attempts to woo a woman with original compositions fail spectacularly, as she excuses herself to find a bar before he can even finish his song.
His efforts to secure a recording contract are equally disastrous. He mails demonstration recordings to various companies, only to have them returned. Two are returned as "address unknown," and a third is returned on a C.O.D. (Cash on Delivery) basis, meaning he had to pay for the return of his own failed demo. The record companies eventually send form letters suggesting he find a trade that does not require singing.
The Final Attempt at Improvement
In a last-ditch effort to improve, the narrator seeks professional guitar lessons. This attempt is thwarted when his teacher takes a leave of absence, citing a breakdown or the need for a reprieve. Despite these overwhelming signs of failure, the narrator remains undeterred and pledges to persevere.
Key Facts
- Narrative Theme: The total lack of talent and the delusion of grandeur.
- The Instrument: A low-priced, low-quality guitar that the narrator fails to keep in tune.
- Professional Rejections: Three returned demo tapes and form letters suggesting a career change.
- The Fantasy: An imagined backing band including bass, lead guitar, drums, and strings.
| Attempt | Expected Outcome | Actual Result |
|---|---|---|
| Talent Nights | Stardom/Applause | Screamed off stage during encores |
| Romantic Serenades | Impressing a girl | Girl leaves to find a bar |
| Demo Recordings | Record Contract | Returned tapes and career change advice |
| Guitar Lessons | Skill Improvement | Teacher suffers a breakdown |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the narrator call his guitar?
He refers to his guitar as his "monophonic symphony six-string orchestra."
Why is the narrator doomed to fail?
He possesses a total lack of musical talent and is unable to play his guitar, which is of poor quality and frequently out of tune.
How did the record companies respond to his demos?
They returned his tapes—some as address unknown and one via C.O.D.—and sent form letters suggesting he find a different trade.
What happens during the song's refrain?
The narrator imagines a full band (bass, lead guitar, drums, and strings) joining him, but they stop playing right before the end of the phrase, leaving him alone.
Does the narrator eventually give up?
No, despite the repeated failures and the loss of his teacher, the narrator remains undeterred and vows to persevere.