The Cinema Show

Genesis' song 'The Cinema Show' is a rich tapestry of lyrical storytelling and mythological references. The song opens with a modern-day Romeo and Juliet, each preparing for their own personal 'cinema show.' Juliet, coming home from work, engages in a ritual of self-care, dabbing her skin with perfumes to conceal and appeal. This act of preparation hints at the societal pressures on women to present themselves in a certain way. Romeo, on the other hand, locks his basement flat and ascends the stairs with confidence, adorned in a floral tie, symbolizing his weekend transformation into a 'millionaire.' His preparation involves a 'chocolate surprise,' a metaphor for his romantic intentions and perhaps a nod to the sweetness and allure of love.

The song then takes a dramatic turn with the introduction of Father Tiresias, a figure from Greek mythology who has lived as both a man and a woman. Tiresias' monologue serves as a bridge between the personal stories of Romeo and Juliet and the broader themes of identity and experience. He speaks of his journey across the poles of gender, emphasizing that he has seen and lived through it all. His statement, 'Once a man, like the sea I raged, Once a woman, like the earth I gave,' contrasts the traditional masculine and feminine qualities, suggesting a deeper understanding of human nature and the balance between them.

The repetition of Tiresias' words underscores the timeless nature of his wisdom. By stating 'there is in fact more earth than sea,' Tiresias may be alluding to the idea that nurturing and giving (qualities often associated with femininity) are more prevalent and essential than the raging and conquering (qualities often associated with masculinity). This profound insight ties back to the modern-day Romeo and Juliet, suggesting that their personal struggles and societal roles are part of a larger, timeless narrative. 'The Cinema Show' thus becomes a reflection on love, identity, and the human condition, framed within the context of both contemporary life and ancient myth.