Le Risque

King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard's song 'Le Risque' delves into the exhilarating and often perilous allure of living life on the edge. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a protagonist who finds solace and meaning in taking risks, rejecting the safety and monotony of a conventional life. The opening lines, 'Feel it, know it / Trust in the lie you've been sold,' suggest a disillusionment with societal norms and a desire to break free from the constraints of a risk-averse existence.

The song's chorus, 'Gimme something to thin the blood / There's nothin' quite like diggin' graves for fun,' uses dark and provocative imagery to convey the thrill and adrenaline rush that comes from engaging in dangerous activities. The protagonist likens themselves to 'the fuckin' recoil of a gun in hell,' emphasizing their intense and almost reckless pursuit of excitement. This metaphor highlights the internal conflict between the desire for safety and the irresistible pull of risk-taking.

References to cultural icons like Evel Knievel and Philippe Petit further underscore the theme of daring feats and living life to the fullest. The lines 'Hello, Evel Knievel / Running through the red light / Philippe Petit, yeah / Walk the tightwire' celebrate individuals who have become legendary for their audacious stunts. The song's closing lines, 'Adrenaline, my dearest friend, it's you and me until the end,' encapsulate the protagonist's unwavering commitment to embracing danger as a means of feeling truly alive. 'Le Risque' ultimately serves as a powerful anthem for those who seek to transcend the mundane and find meaning in the thrill of the unknown.