About this episode
This episode explores the evolution of the Siren myth and its cultural representations, including connections to Starbucks and Moby Dick.
The mythical Sirens have long been depicted as tantalizing, seductive, banes to the existence of accursed sailors, enchanted by their fatal song. The Greeks had them as winged maidens, but somewhere along the way, the meaning shifted: in most European languages, the word Siren translates as “mermaid”. You’re listening to the Green Brothers Novelty band with “Siren of the South Sea”. If the smell of fresh-brewed coffee renders you helpless, you may have run into Melusina today. Starbucks has used the half-woman, half water-serpent’s likeness since 1971, based on a Norse woodcut. Why the nautical theme? Starbuck was the name of Captain Ahab’s first mate in Moby Dick .
Topics covered
- mythology
- Sirens
- mermaids
- cultural symbolism
- literature
- nautical themes
Keywords
- Sirens
- mythology
- mermaids
- Melusina
- Starbucks
- Moby Dick
- cultural symbolism
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Starbucks
Books & works: Moby Dick
More episodes of Sound Beat
- American Archives Month: Records Revisited · May 29, 2026 · 2 min
- Oh, Shenandoah · May 23, 2026
- STAR WARS Week: Lord Vader · May 9, 2026 · 2 min
- STAR WARS Week: Old Ben · May 8, 2026
- STAR WARS Week: Rescue · May 5, 2026
- The Force · May 4, 2026
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Sound Beat podcast page.