Story and Images by Terry Check
When John Mayer released Born and Raised in 2012, it marked a departure from the glossy pop-rock sounds of his earlier works. Nestled deep in the track list was an unassuming, yet deeply evocative ballad: “Walt Grace’s Submarine Test, January 1967.” The song’s narrative style, surreal imagery, and emotional undertones set it apart. It was an instant favorite for many fans and critics, not just for its artistry but also for its puzzling story.
The Song and Its Lyrics
The song tells the tale of Walt Grace, a dreamer dissatisfied with his mundane existence. Despite skepticism and ridicule from those around him, he sets out to build a homemade submarine. Against all odds, Walt succeeds, launching himself into the ocean and toward freedom, leaving behind a legacy of determination, courage, and belief in oneself.
The lyrics, both literal and metaphorical, paint a picture of resilience and human ingenuity. Walt’s story resonates with anyone who has dared to chase an unconventional dream, despite societal doubt:
“When you’re waiting on faith, it’s bound to test your patience…”
Mayer’s subdued vocals and the minimalist arrangement—a blend of folk and blues—underscore the song’s introspection. The sparse trumpet outro evokes a sense of triumph and bittersweet solitude, mirroring Walt Grace’s ultimate escape.
The Song’s Origin
In interviews, Mayer described the song as a “fictional narrative” he approached like a short story. He wanted to write about a character far removed from his own experiences, showcasing his storytelling skills. The title’s specificity—January 1967—grounds the fantastic tale in a historical context, lending it a feeling of authenticity. Mayer has hinted that the song reflects his own journey as an artist who often defied expectations and criticism.
Impact on Society Today
“Walt Grace’s Submarine Test, January 1967” has become a modern anthem for dreamers, creatives, and anyone pursuing a path less traveled. It has inspired countless interpretations, from blog posts analyzing its deeper meaning to fan art depicting Walt’s submarine. In a society that increasingly values innovation and self-reliance, the song resonates as a tribute to perseverance and individuality.
Educators have even used the song to teach storytelling and creative writing, emphasizing its unique structure and rich character development. Entrepreneurs and motivational speakers cite it as a story for risk-taking and resilience.
Cultural Resonance
“Walt Grace’s Submarine Test, January 1967” endures as more than just a song—it is a fable for the modern age. In an era where individualism and creativity are celebrated but often challenged, Walt Grace’s quiet determination serves as a beacon of hope. It reminds listeners that even the wildest dreams are worth pursuing and that, sometimes, the greatest triumph is simply to believe in oneself.
The lyrics of Walt Grace’s Submarine Test, January 1967 begin with
Desperately aiding his whole place
Dreamed to discover a new space
And buried himself alive
Inside his basement
Tongue on the side of his face meant
He’s working away on his placement
And what it would take to survive
‘Cause when you’re done with this world
You know the next is up to you
And his wife told his kids he was crazy
And his friends said he’d fail if he’d try
But with the will to work hard
And a library card
He took a homemade, fan-blade
One-man submarine ride ………….
Reinventors Today
Walt Grace Vintage Cars and Guitars takes its name from “Walt Grace’s Submarine Test, January 1967”, a song by John Mayer. The song’s protagonist, Walt Grace, embodies the spirit of daring to follow one’s dreams. The company founder, Bill Goldstein, drew inspiration from this narrative to chart his own path.
After earning accolades in the advertising world, Bill faced a pivotal moment, asking himself, “Is that all there is?” Motivated by Walt Grace’s determination, he chose to reinvent himself, pursuing his passion and creating Walt Grace Vintage. Much like Walt building his submarine, Bill built a business celebrating individuality, creativity, and bold decisions to procure and sell vintage cars and guitars. Walt Grace Vintage isn’t just a name—it’s a testament to chasing dreams, no matter how unconventional, and inspiring others to do the same.
From John Mayer’s song Walt Grace, it embodies a spirit of resilience and daring, risking everything to chase an unconventional dream. For Terry Check, this narrative struck a deeply personal chord and became a beacon for his own reinvention.
Terry started his career as a young engineer, founding an environmental design-build company just four years out of college. For 25 years, he nurtured the business, serving industrial clients with passion and precision. However, when his children chose different paths, uninterested in the company, Terry faced a defining moment. He shut down the company and found himself adrift, pondering life’s purpose while repeatedly playing Mayer’s poignant ballad. Like Walt Grace, he asked himself, “Is that all there is?”
Fueled by the song’s message, Terry dared to reinvent himself. With no formal credentials and only fake press passes purchased online, he embarked on a bold experiment – masquerading as a journalist. What began as a leap of faith grew into a remarkable career spanning two decades. Terry’s unorthodox approach paid off: he has published more than 80 stories in esteemed magazines, including “Masquerade Magazine”.
Terry Check’s journey mirrors Walt Grace’s – proof that it’s never too late to pursue a dream, no matter how unconventional. His story is a testament to the transformative power of determination, creativity, and a song that inspires you to dive deep into the unknown.
The artwork was created by Terry Check with Midjourney. Checkout the lyric video of Walt Grace’s Submarine Test by John Mayer.
