work, spoken of extensively in his final novel Island as well as in essays on religion and transcendence. Huxley describes the Nataraja as the ultimate symbol: “The whole thing is there…the world of space and time and matter and energy; the world of creation and destruction.” (Speaking Personally, recorded 1961) Johnny’s Shiva tattoo also has an extra, special personalisation: instead of the damaru, Johnny’s Shiva holds a guitar pick, symbolising the tool and source of Johnny’s own creations.
SWALLOW One of Johnny’s most recent tattoos is the image of a swallow on the left side of his neck. Traditionally swallow tattoos, particularly on the neck, hands and chest, were used by sailors to indicate sailing experience (one swallow marked the milestone of 5,000 nautical miles; two swallows marked 10,000), or as an omen of protection and safety at sea. A tattoo of a swallow can also symbolise loyalty and devotion to loved ones, since swallows return home every year. It’s unclear exactly what Johnny’s swallow tattoo means to him on a more personal level, but as somebody who travels frequently to tour (and is often away from his loved ones as a result), both safety while travelling and loyalty to loved ones seem fitting. Johnny has also mentioned in
conversation that the swallow is a symbol of swiftness - a trait valued by Johnny on both mental and physical levels.
ATOMIC EXPLOSION Johnny’s other most recent tattoo is one rarely seen (as it’s on his upper left arm and usually hidden by shirts, even short-sleeved ones), but full of important symbolism. Contained within the visualisation of an atomic explosion are an array of small symbols with specific meanings, some of which he’s explained in conversation with Dynamic’s editors.
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