Something The Boy Said

Sting's song 'Something The Boy Said' is a haunting narrative that delves into themes of prophecy, fear, and the unknown. The lyrics tell the story of a journey embarked upon with confidence and unity, only to be overshadowed by a chilling prediction made by a young boy. The boy's words, 'you'll never see our faces again, you'll be food for a carrion crow,' cast a dark shadow over the travelers, instilling a sense of dread and foreboding that permeates their journey.

The song's imagery is rich and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the travelers' experiences. The 'wind on the moor so wild' and 'clouds like dark riders flying on the face of the moon' create a sense of desolation and impending doom. The recurring mention of the carrion crow, a bird often associated with death and decay, reinforces the ominous tone of the boy's prophecy. The travelers' growing fear and uncertainty are palpable as they question the captain about his son's knowledge, seeking reassurance but finding none.

As the song progresses, the sense of dread intensifies. The narrator's awakening to a 'sun's eye red as blood' and the 'stench of burning corpses' suggests a scene of devastation and horror. The final lines, 'Am I dead or am I living? I'm too afraid to care, I'm too afraid to know,' capture the ultimate despair and resignation of the travelers. The boy's prophecy has come to pass, and the travelers are left to face the grim reality of their fate. Sting masterfully uses metaphor and vivid imagery to explore the themes of fate, fear, and the power of words, leaving listeners with a lingering sense of unease and contemplation.