Nine Funerals Of The Citizen King

Henry Cow's 'Nine Funerals Of The Citizen King' is a complex and thought-provoking piece that delves into themes of power, control, and the illusion of freedom. The song opens with the line 'Down beneath the spectacle of free,' immediately suggesting that what appears to be freedom is merely a facade. The 'Citizen King' is a metaphor for those who hold power behind the scenes, ruling over the 'fantastic architecture of all the burning cities,' a vivid image that evokes chaos and destruction masked by a veneer of order and prosperity.

The lyrics reference historical and literary figures, such as Wordsworth and the Dada movement, to underscore the manipulation of culture and intellect by those in power. The line 'Double-time the king pays to Wordsworth' suggests that even art and poetry are co-opted by the ruling class to maintain control. The mention of 'Mama of Dada' and the year 1919 alludes to the Dadaist movement, which was a reaction against the absurdity of war and the societal structures that perpetuate it. This historical reference enriches the song's critique of contemporary power dynamics, suggesting that the struggle against oppressive systems is a long-standing one.

The recurring phrase 'La la la la la la la la la la la la' serves as a haunting reminder of the superficial distractions that keep people from seeing the truth. The song's cyclical structure, repeating the opening lines towards the end, reinforces the idea that these issues are ongoing and unresolved. The Citizen King remains hidden, and the spectacle of freedom continues to deceive. Through its intricate lyrics and rich metaphors, 'Nine Funerals Of The Citizen King' challenges listeners to question the reality of their freedom and the true nature of those who govern their lives.