Rock and Rôle

Peter Hammill's 'Rock and Rôle' delves into the complex interplay between fame, identity, and the emotional toll of public life. The song opens with a cautionary tone, urging the listener to be wary of the 'silent moment' and the 'Liemaker,' a metaphorical figure representing deceit and the pressures of maintaining a public persona. The imagery of barbs sinking through honesty and the need to roll over quickly suggests the constant vigilance required to protect one's true self from being consumed by external expectations and falsehoods.

The lyrics further explore the idea of being an 'emotion picture' and 'instant playback,' highlighting the repetitive and unchanging nature of public scrutiny. The 'monochrome phase' symbolizes a loss of color and vibrancy, reduced to mere fear and hate, reflecting the emotional desolation that can accompany fame. Hammill's use of 'living diary' suggests a life constantly on display, with no room for genuine change or growth, only a perpetual performance.

In the latter part of the song, Hammill introduces himself as the 'automated arrow' and 'Peacebringer,' paradoxically feeding on grief and grieving through joy. This duality underscores the conflicting emotions experienced by those in the public eye. The plea to 'roll me over and turn aside' reveals a desire to avoid the mirror of another's eyes, fearing the theft of life and vitality. This poignant imagery encapsulates the struggle to maintain one's identity and emotional well-being amidst the relentless demands of fame and public perception.