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The song's lyrics portray the image of a glamorous and seductive Hollywood starlet, referred to as the "20th Century Fox." Jim Morrison sings about the allure and superficiality of fame, presenting the actress as an object of desire and admiration. The lyrics contain tongue-in-cheek references to the glamorous lifestyle and the artificiality that often accompanies celebrity culture.
While "20th Century Fox" does touch upon the fascination with Los Angeles and the allure of Hollywood, it primarily serves as a commentary on the manufactured image and the superficiality often associated with the entertainment industry. It reflects Morrison's skepticism towards the artificiality and image-driven nature of the Hollywood world.
One of the few songs on The Doors that openly acknowledged Morrison's adopted hometown of Los Angeles, "Twentieth Century Fox" described a stylish yet materialistic woman. But it's really a metaphor for a broader social scene. "We knew exactly what he was talking about in 'Twentieth Century Fox' — youth culture and the attraction of L.A.," said beat poet Linda Albertano, who, like Morrison, attended UCLA's film school. "Young people are drawn to Hollywood, and their excitement in being here, in turn, excites the people who are ready to consume them. 'Twentieth Century Fox' is about fresh meat, as it were, about to enter the abattoir with a smile." Producer Paul Rothchild had the band walk on wooden planks in the studio to achieve the pounding effect heard in the song. "If you listen to the rhythm sound on the chorus, it sounds like a small army!" Rothchild recalled to BAM magazine in 1981. "I'd just done a flamenco record where I'd used a similar idea. I thought it would be great to put it on a rock 'n' roll record."
It is worth noting that interpretations of songs can vary, and listeners may find personal meaning or deeper symbolism in the lyrics that resonate with them individually. However, in the case of "20th Century Fox," the song's primary focus appears to be on providing a satirical commentary rather than exploring profound themes or the counter culture of the 1960s like some of The Doors' other works.
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