The Sword of Damocles

The song 'The Sword of Damocles' from 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show' is a vivid portrayal of existential dread and the feeling of impending doom. The title itself is a reference to the ancient Greek parable of Damocles, who was forced to sit under a sword suspended by a single hair to illustrate the constant threat faced by those in positions of power. In the song, this metaphor is used to express the protagonist's anxiety and the sense that something terrible is about to happen, symbolized by the sword hanging over their head.

The lyrics convey a deep sense of unease and foreboding. The protagonist wakes up with a feeling of 'unnameable dread' and describes their life as a 'misery' and a 'mystery.' This sense of dread is compounded by the feeling that they are 'at the start of a pretty big downer,' suggesting that they are on the brink of a significant downturn in their life. The repetition of the phrase 'that ain't no crime' serves as a form of denial or an attempt to downplay the severity of their situation, but it ultimately underscores their helplessness and resignation.

Musically, the song's upbeat tempo and catchy 'sha la la' chorus create a stark contrast to the dark and heavy themes of the lyrics. This juxtaposition highlights the absurdity and surreal nature of the protagonist's predicament, a hallmark of 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show's' campy and irreverent style. The song captures the essence of the film's blend of horror, comedy, and musical theater, using humor and irony to explore deeper themes of fear, uncertainty, and the human condition.