Beryl

Mark Knopfler's song 'Beryl' is a poignant tribute to the British author Beryl Bainbridge, who was posthumously awarded the Booker Prize. The lyrics reflect on the irony and tragedy of her recognition coming only after her death. Knopfler's repetitive mention of Beryl being 'dead in her grave' underscores the frustration and sadness that her immense talent was not acknowledged during her lifetime. This repetition serves to emphasize the injustice and the sense of loss felt by those who admired her work.

The song delves into the theme of overlooked genius, highlighting how Beryl Bainbridge was consistently passed over for the Booker Prize despite her significant contributions to literature. The line 'Every time they'd overlook her' speaks to the recurring nature of this oversight, suggesting a systemic issue within the literary community. The phrase 'after all she gave' is a powerful reminder of the dedication and passion Beryl poured into her craft, which went unrecognized until it was too late.

Knopfler also touches on the personal struggles Beryl faced, with the line 'The tobacco overtook her' hinting at her battle with smoking, which ultimately contributed to her death. This adds a layer of personal tragedy to the narrative, making the posthumous recognition even more bittersweet. The refrain 'It's all too late now' serves as a lament for the missed opportunities to celebrate Beryl's work while she was alive, and a critique of the tendency to only honor artists after their passing. Through 'Beryl,' Knopfler not only pays homage to a remarkable writer but also calls for a more timely and just recognition of artistic talent.