I Salute You Christopher (Ode to Christopher Hitchens)

IAMX's song "I Salute You Christopher (Ode to Christopher Hitchens)" is a heartfelt tribute to the late Christopher Hitchens, a renowned author, journalist, and critic known for his sharp wit and fearless criticism of religion and politics. The song opens with a salute to Hitchens' life and his bold approach to existence, likening his choices to a roll of the dice. This metaphor underscores Hitchens' willingness to take risks and challenge the status quo, a theme that resonates throughout the lyrics.

The song praises Hitchens' words as timeless, explosive, fresh, and wise, suggesting that his intellectual contributions will continue to influence and inspire. The lyrics acknowledge that while some may forget or ignore Hitchens' legacy, others will be moved to action and change. This duality reflects the polarizing nature of Hitchens' work, which often provoked strong reactions from both supporters and detractors.

IAMX also touches on Hitchens' staunch atheism and his critique of religious dogma. The lyrics contrast the idea of a scientific death with the concept of eternal life, dismissing the latter as a comforting fairy tale. The song portrays the notion of a divine being as a tyrannical and lonely psychopath, a creation designed to control and manipulate. This aligns with Hitchens' own views, as he was known for his outspoken criticism of organized religion and its impact on society.

The song further describes Hitchens as a "brilliant gentle wreck" with a "brutal mouth for press," capturing the complexity of his character. He is depicted as a relentless truth-seeker, unafraid to challenge falsehoods and expose threats. The lyrics conclude with a declaration of Hitchens as a king or queen, depending on his mood, emphasizing his multifaceted nature and the profound respect the artist holds for him.