Meaning of "The Painter" by Deep Purple

The lyrics of "The Painter" by Deep Purple reflect a deep desire for self-expression and escapism from the struggles of life. The speaker calls upon various creative roles – painter, writer, singer – to color their life, give it meaning, and provide solace. The repeated requests for these artists to "take away the misery" and "make the meaning gay" suggest a yearning for the transformative power of art to bring joy and understanding. Each creative role represents a different facet of the speaker's need for catharsis and identity. Ultimately, the lyrics convey a plea for art to offer respite and purpose in a world filled with hardship.