It is a song about war/violence and peace/love. Ultimately about the transcendance of the evil. Miller is basicaly a blues musician with a message. Blues is positive music about many of the negative things in life. The images of the alligator, generals, chrome elevator, dead horse, etc. are left to interpretation but they fit into the overall scheme. The last verses are key:
One of Steve's best tunes. Just get the Anthology album with so many great songs on it. Out of the ten plus times I've seen him my best was after Fly Like an Eagle came out. Saw him downtown Oakland in 76 at the Paramount theatre. He played the old and new. Awesome show ....
forgot all about this catchy steve miller tune my older brother once played nonstop when i was younger. awsome and not like those top forty deals everyone knows him for.
Hey Craig, your comment about intro sounding like Jimi,is DEAD ON! First thing I thought the very 1st time I ever heard it. Good call. I say the same thing every time I play it for friends and they all agree.