Solsbury Hill

Peter Gabriel's 'Solsbury Hill' is a song that is often interpreted as a reflection of his departure from the band Genesis and his subsequent journey towards a solo career. The lyrics describe a spiritual and metaphorical climb up Solsbury Hill, where the protagonist experiences a moment of clarity and transformation. The hill itself, a real location near Bath, England, serves as a symbol for the artist's ascent to a higher state of consciousness or a turning point in his life.

The narrative of the song suggests a moment of epiphany, where the protagonist encounters an eagle, which is a common symbol of freedom and vision. The eagle's appearance and the voice that the protagonist hears represent a call to change, prompting a decision to step away from the familiar and embrace a new path. The repeated line 'My heart going boom boom boom' signifies the excitement and trepidation of facing the unknown, while the phrase 'I've come to take you home' suggests a return to authenticity and self-realization.

The song also touches on themes of individuality and non-conformity. The protagonist feels like part of the 'machinery' and decides to walk out of it, indicating a desire to break free from the constraints of expectations and societal norms. The mention of 'turning water into wine' and 'liberty she pirouette' could be interpreted as the transformative power of creativity and the illusion of freedom within the confines of fame. Ultimately, 'Solsbury Hill' is a song about finding one's true self and the courage it takes to follow one's heart and intuition.