Rattle That Lock
David Gilmour
Breaking Free: An Analysis of David Gilmour's 'Rattle That Lock'
David Gilmour's song 'Rattle That Lock' is a compelling call to action, urging listeners to break free from their constraints and embrace a journey of liberation. The lyrics suggest a struggle against binding chains, possibly metaphorical, representing personal or societal limitations. The repeated phrase 'Rattle that lock and lose those chains' serves as a powerful anthem for change, emphasizing the need to challenge the status quo and pursue freedom.
The references to 'the Burning Lake' and 'the Eastern Gate' add a layer of mysticism and perhaps a nod to spiritual or existential passages. These could symbolize the trials one must endure to achieve enlightenment or a new beginning. The song's narrative pushes the listener to revisit past mistakes ('Go back to where we blew it') and to boldly confront and discard the remnants of chaos and sin, suggesting a cleansing or purifying process that is both psychological and spiritual.
Gilmour's lyrics also touch on themes of existentialism and the human condition. The mention of 'other travellers' becoming 'phantoms to our eyes' and 'fallen angels in disguise' could reflect on how people lose their true selves in life's journey, obscured by their roles or societal expectations. The song advocates for a life lived with authenticity and passion, undisturbed by 'discord, chance, or rumour,' aiming for a state of bliss that is uninterrupted by external noise or internal conflict.