Indiscipline
King Crimson
The Intriguing Puzzle of 'Indiscipline' by King Crimson
The song 'Indiscipline' by King Crimson is a complex and enigmatic piece that delves into the psyche of an individual obsessed with a creation or an idea. The lyrics convey a sense of deep involvement and fixation, as the narrator describes spending hours on something that they become incredibly attached to. The repetition of the phrase 'I repeat myself when under stress' suggests a compulsive behavior, possibly hinting at the stress of the creative process or the anxiety that comes with self-expression.
The song's structure mirrors the obsessive nature of the lyrics, with repetitive musical patterns that build a sense of tension and unease. King Crimson, known for their progressive rock style, often explores themes of mental states and the human condition through complex musical compositions. 'Indiscipline' is no exception, as it uses dissonance and irregular rhythms to evoke the emotional turmoil of the narrator. The song's title itself suggests a lack of control or a deviation from the norm, which is reflected in both the lyrics and the music.
The emotional climax of the song comes with the lines 'I wish you were here to see it' and 'I like it,' which reveal a desire for validation and satisfaction with the work, despite the obsessive process. This could be interpreted as a commentary on the nature of art and the artist's relationship with their work, where the struggle and discipline of creation lead to a product that is deeply personal and subject to scrutiny, both from the self and from others.