King Of Everything
Boy George
The Fall and Redemption of a Troubled Soul
Boy George's song "King Of Everything" delves into the themes of regret, self-destruction, and the quest for redemption. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with their inner demons and the consequences of their actions. The opening lines, "Put down the booze, let the demons win the fight," suggest a moment of surrender to one's vices, leading to a downward spiral. The protagonist acknowledges the pain they've caused, particularly to a loved one, as they reflect on the times they've made them cry and let them down.
The chorus, with its repeated question, "What's the word on the street, have I lost my crown, or will I be king again?" symbolizes the protagonist's internal struggle with their sense of self-worth and identity. The crown represents their former glory or sense of control, which they fear they have lost due to their destructive behavior. The imagery of a crying child, howling dogs, and a siren filling the air further emphasizes the chaos and turmoil that their actions have brought into their life and the lives of those around them.
Throughout the song, there is a recurring theme of self-blame and the realization of the impact of one's actions on others. The lines, "I mocked your tears and I scarred your heart, I blamed the past and I blamed you," highlight the protagonist's tendency to deflect responsibility and the subsequent guilt they feel. The song ends on a note of introspection, with the protagonist standing outside of themselves, looking down, perhaps contemplating the possibility of redemption and whether they can reclaim their 'crown' and become the 'king of everything' once more.