Julia

Rick Wakeman's song 'Julia' is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the haunting memories that linger long after a relationship has ended. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a tumultuous love affair, marked by intense emotions and a sense of urgency. The repeated motif of running, with the heart in the mouth, symbolizes the frantic and desperate nature of the relationship, as well as the protagonist's attempt to escape the overwhelming feelings that come with it.

The song delves into the complexity of the relationship, where the protagonist reflects on the past and the mistakes made. The lines 'We threw off our chains / Hid ourselves in ourselves from the world and its organized hell' suggest a desire to escape societal norms and expectations, seeking solace in each other. However, this escape is short-lived, as indicated by the line 'Now - nothing remains / Barely a trace of the place where I knew him well.' The relationship, once a sanctuary, has now become a distant memory, leaving the protagonist feeling like a 'poor refugee' with no direction.

The chorus, with its repeated plea to 'stay well away from the door,' highlights the fear of being discovered and the need for secrecy in their love. The protagonist's love is described in conflicting terms, 'Princess Madonna and whore,' capturing the multifaceted nature of their feelings. The final verses convey a sense of resignation and acceptance of the relationship's end, with the protagonist clinging to the memory of a single, perfect afternoon. The song's melancholic tone and introspective lyrics resonate deeply, making 'Julia' a powerful reflection on the enduring impact of love and loss.