The Great Deceiver

King Crimson's 'The Great Deceiver' is a complex and enigmatic song that delves into themes of deception, materialism, and the duality of human nature. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a character who embodies deceit and manipulation, presenting a facade of charm and allure while hiding darker intentions. The song's protagonist is described through a series of surreal and often contradictory images, such as a 'health-food faggot with a bartered bride' and a 'shoe-shine boy with a gin-shop slag,' highlighting the absurdity and hypocrisy of societal norms and expectations.

The recurring refrain of 'Great deceiver' serves as a reminder of the central theme of deception. The character is portrayed as someone who can charm and manipulate others, offering them dreams and promises only to betray them in the end. This is further emphasized by the lines 'He'll charm your life 'til the cold winds blow / Then he'll sell your dreams to a picture show,' suggesting that the deceiver's promises are ultimately empty and transient. The imagery of 'cigarettes, ice cream, figurines of the virgin mary' juxtaposes the sacred and the profane, symbolizing the commodification of spirituality and the superficiality of material desires.

Musically, King Crimson's progressive rock style complements the lyrical content, with intricate instrumentation and shifting time signatures that mirror the song's themes of instability and unpredictability. The band's use of dissonance and unconventional song structures creates a sense of unease and tension, reflecting the deceptive nature of the song's protagonist. 'The Great Deceiver' is a powerful critique of the illusions and false promises that pervade modern society, urging listeners to look beyond appearances and question the true nature of those who seek to manipulate and control them.