Keep It Dark

Genesis's song 'Keep It Dark' tells the intriguing story of a man who returns home after a mysterious disappearance. The lyrics initially describe a seemingly mundane event: the man was mistaken for someone wealthy by a gang of thieves, who, upon discovering he had no money, released him. This part of the story sets a tone of relief and normalcy, as the man is simply happy to be back with his family. However, the song quickly takes a turn into the extraordinary.

The man hints at an incredible experience he had during his absence, one that he feels compelled to keep secret. He describes a utopian world filled with joy, light, and peace—cities without war, creatures living happier lives, and a future brimming with meaning. This vision starkly contrasts with the reality he returns to, suggesting a profound and possibly otherworldly encounter. The repeated refrain, 'Oh, keep it dark,' underscores the tension between the man's desire to share his wondrous experience and the necessity to conceal it, perhaps due to fear of disbelief or societal rejection.

The song can be interpreted as a metaphor for the human condition and the struggle between hope and reality. The man's utopian vision represents an ideal world that many yearn for but find difficult to believe in or achieve. By choosing to 'keep it dark,' the song reflects the often unspoken dreams and aspirations that people harbor but feel unable to express. Genesis, known for their progressive rock style and thought-provoking lyrics, uses this narrative to explore themes of truth, perception, and the hidden potential for a better world within us all.