Meaning of "Red Shift" by Peter Hammill

The lyrics of "Red Shift" delve deep into existential themes, using the astrophysical term red shift as a metaphor for the decay of hope and understanding in the universe. Peter Hammill contemplates the passage of time and the inevitable changes that come with it, comparing the shifting stars to the shifting perceptions and beliefs of humanity. The uncertainty of existence is highlighted through lines questioning the meaning of the world and the true nature of reality. The mention of stars being like atoms and atoms being patterns reflects a sense of interconnectedness and the possibility that everything may just be a dream. The idea of time moving on with no rhyme and the speaker being just a song in the depth of the galaxies conveys a sense of insignificance in the grand scheme of the universe. Overall, "Red Shift" is a contemplative piece that delves into the complexities of life, knowledge, and the ever-changing nature of the cosmos.