This Boy

Brendan Perry's song 'This Boy' is a poignant reflection on the disillusionment with societal and political structures, and a yearning for a world grounded in love and truth. The lyrics express a strong anti-war sentiment, with the protagonist rejecting the idea of fighting in wars that are not his own. This boy, as Perry refers to himself, believes in love as the ultimate guiding principle, contrasting sharply with the violence and deceit he perceives around him.

The song delves deeper into the personal sacrifices and moral compromises that individuals are often forced to make. Perry's refusal to 'sign away my life' or 'hand over my rights' underscores a desire to maintain personal integrity and autonomy. The imagery of bending backwards and crawling on his tummy suggests a sense of humiliation and subjugation, yet there is also a spiritual dimension as he prays for forgiveness for collective sins and the dire state of the world.

Perry's lyrics also evoke a sense of confusion and helplessness, likening his experience to 'sleepwalking in a great big haunted house.' This metaphor captures the disorientation and fear that come with living in a world filled with lies and deception. Despite this, there is a call to resist being broken or confined by societal expectations, symbolized by the 'old man's parade.' The song concludes with a note of resilience and hope, as 'this boy' returns from the metaphorical war, ready to confront and settle old scores, seeking a return to authenticity and warmth.