A Trick Of The Tail

Genesis' song 'A Trick Of The Tail' tells the story of a creature who leaves his home, a mythical 'city of gold,' in search of companionship and understanding. The protagonist, disillusioned with his life in the city, ventures out into the world, only to find himself in a place where he is seen as an oddity. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of his journey and the alienation he feels among beings who do not share his physical traits or knowledge of his homeland. This sense of isolation is poignantly captured in the repeated lines, 'They've got no horns and they've got no tail / They don't even know of our existence.'

The song delves into themes of identity and belonging, as the creature grapples with the disbelief and mockery of those he encounters. His belief in the 'city of gold' becomes a metaphor for the search for a place where he truly fits in, a place that others dismiss as mere fantasy. The narrative takes a turn when the creature, in a moment of desperation, breaks free from his captors and tries to convince them of the existence of his homeland. This act of defiance underscores his unwavering faith in his origins and his desire to be understood and accepted.

In the end, the song leaves listeners with a sense of ambiguity. The creature's disappearance and the fleeting glimpse of a golden spire suggest that perhaps his 'city of gold' was real after all, or maybe it was just a 'trick of the eye.' This ambiguity invites listeners to reflect on their own quests for belonging and the fine line between reality and illusion. Genesis, known for their progressive rock style, uses this narrative to explore deeper existential themes, making 'A Trick Of The Tail' a thought-provoking piece that resonates on multiple levels.