Great King Rat

Queen's song 'Great King Rat' is a vivid narrative that delves into the life and demise of a morally corrupt character. The lyrics paint a picture of Great King Rat, a man born on May 21st who dies of syphilis on his 44th birthday. His life is marked by lawlessness, profanity, and a general disregard for societal norms. The repeated refrain 'Wouldn't you like to know?' invites listeners to ponder the details of his sordid life, almost as if daring them to look deeper into the darkness that defined him.

The song's narrative is not just a biography of a 'dirty old man,' but also a cautionary tale. It warns against blind faith and societal norms, urging listeners to question what they read in the Bible and what they hear from authority figures like their mothers. The lyrics suggest that following the wrong path can lead one to become a disciple of evil, much like Great King Rat. This message is underscored by the line 'Put out the good and keep the bad,' which flips conventional wisdom on its head, challenging the listener to think critically about morality and influence.

Musically, Queen's style in 'Great King Rat' is a blend of rock and theatrical storytelling, a hallmark of their early work. The song's structure, with its repeated questions and emphatic statements, creates a sense of urgency and inevitability. The character of Great King Rat serves as a metaphor for the consequences of a life lived without moral compass, making the song a timeless reflection on human nature and the choices we make. The narrative complexity and moral ambiguity make 'Great King Rat' a compelling piece that resonates with listeners on multiple levels.