We've examined the symbolism of the dancing bears and skeletons in parts one and two of this series; this time, we'll take a closer look at the terrapin. These sweet little turtles appeared on the album cover of “Terrapin Station,” and since then have been featured on wall posters, t-shirts, hats and more. There are even a few terrapins in the Grateful Dead plush series.

Since the origin of the terrapin art is clearly inspired by the song “Terrapin Station,” the song's lyrics are a good place to start in searching for the meaning behind the turtle symbol. Robert Hunter penned the lyrics to the song, while Jerry Garcia wrote the music. One refrain in the song proclaims: “Some rise, some fall, some climb to get to terrapin.” In light of the turtle's association with the earth and the cosmos in many Native American and Asian cultures, it makes sense that the terrapin here is symbolic of an earthly, physical existance. With its domed shell symbolizing the heavens and its square underside symbolizing the solid ground on which we dwell, the terrapin is itself a model of the universe. The Grateful Dead have always been such a real band—always present in the moment,m always truly living. The terrapin is a reminder that we are lucky to be here on this earth, breathing and dancing and listening and experiencing, and that it's not only okay but is in fact very fitting to slow down a bit and enjoy it. Why not act like a turtle today, and sit back and groove to some “Terrapin Station”?