Incommunicado

Marillion's song 'Incommunicado' delves into the complexities and paradoxes of fame. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a celebrity who is both enamored with and disillusioned by the trappings of stardom. The protagonist struggles with memory issues, possibly a metaphor for the overwhelming nature of fame that makes it hard to keep track of personal connections. The reference to being a 'citizen of Legoland' suggests a life that feels artificial and constructed, while 'travelling Incommunicado' indicates a desire to escape the constant scrutiny of the public eye.

The song's chorus reveals a yearning for lasting recognition, as the protagonist dreams of having their handprints on Sunset Boulevard and a wax figure in Madame Tussauds. This desire for immortality in the public consciousness contrasts sharply with the disdain for fleeting fame, as seen in the lines about not wanting to be a 'backpage interview' or a 'tin can tied to the bumper of a wedding limousine.' The protagonist seeks a balance between being remembered and maintaining a sense of personal identity, free from the superficiality of transient celebrity.

Marillion's lyrics also touch on the absurdities and ironies of fame. The protagonist describes themselves as a 'multi-media bonafide celebrity' with an 'allergy to Perrier, daylight, and responsibility,' highlighting the often ridiculous and contradictory nature of celebrity culture. The song's repeated references to 'synchronicity' and 'deja vu' suggest a cyclical experience of opportunities and challenges, reinforcing the idea that fame is a double-edged sword. Ultimately, 'Incommunicado' is a poignant exploration of the desire for recognition and the simultaneous need for privacy and authenticity in a world obsessed with celebrity.