How is "the valley sleeping like a bastard?"?

Its funny you mention the Decemebrists i just came across them the other day which led me to find this awesome band.

If you dont already know about it www.songmeanings.net is awesome for these type of questions. Something i read on there

“Valley reminds me of the practice of the Landowner’s house being far above the valley of houses, so maybe it’s local men gettting their own back for unfair practices. It would fit with the word mogul.”

It is a very mysterious song to begin with. We never find out exactly which crime they are committing, which is why it’s perfect. I think “the valley sleeping like a bastard” is just setting up the time of night/early morning when the crime will take place. That time before even the earliest of risers awaken. When crimes usually happen? perhaps.

When I listen to it I try to make my own story for what they are doing. It might have something to do with me being a visual person, but I can ‘see’ what’s happening, almost like a movie. I love this song. And they give one of the best shows I’ve ever been to. If you ever get the chance, don’t miss it.

(I’m going to see Colin Meloy on his solo tour on Friday :-D )

I don’t ever get too hung up on song “meaning.” One of my favorite song writers is Jay Farrar, and for the most part I just go along with him without asking too many questions, but in general his lyrics are beyond me.

Putting more thought into this line I hadn’t even determined which meaning of bastard he intends. Are we talking fatherless child, or more like, “you fucking bastard?” I suppose either doesn’t make much difference because the lyric is still pretty obscure.

I’ve never seen them live, but if they come through Minneapolis anytime soon I’ll be there.

I’ll see if my buddy has the Colin Meloy stuff, I’m sure I’ll like it.

@Uberbatman, I like the idea of linking mogul/valley. You obviously put some thought into your answer. Thank you!