Meaning of "King's Call" by Phil Lynott

"King's Call" appears to be a tribute to Elvis Presley, known as "the king of rock and roll," and the impact of his death on his fans. The rainy night when the king went down symbolizes the somber atmosphere that surrounded Elvis's passing. The sadness fills the town, making everyone mourn his loss. The narrator seeks solace and comfort in alcohol, visiting the liquor store to buy wine and gin. He spends the night playing the king's records, finding a connection and camaraderie with a close friend. The lyrics suggest that this way of coping may be frowned upon by some, highlighting the potential judgment from others. However, even in the darkest moments, the sound of the king's music echoes and provides comfort. This could be interpreted as the enduring legacy and influence of Elvis, as his music continues to resonate and bring solace to fans even after his death.

The second verse continues the theme of mourning and coping mechanisms. The narrator's grief leads them to buy more wine and gin, indicating a reliance on alcohol to numb the pain. The repetition of playing the king's records indicates a need to keep the memory and presence of Elvis alive. The line "I got drunk all over again" suggests that the alcohol serves as a temporary escape from reality and the pain of loss.

The bridge of the song introduces elements of longing and reminiscing. The narrator wonders if the king is feeling lonely in his afterlife, and expresses a preference for hearing his lies (possibly referring to Elvis's performances) rather than living without him. This highlights the deep emotional connection the narrator feels towards the king and demonstrates the ongoing impact of his presence, even in death.

The final lines of the song express the narrator's personal grief over the king's death. The stage being bare symbolizes the absence left after the king's passing and the end of an era. The closure of the curtain represents the finality of death and the end of the king's reign. The narrator's tears further convey their sorrow and emotional investment in the loss of the king.

Overall, "King's Call" captures the emotional impact of the death of a beloved figure, possibly Elvis Presley, and explores the different ways people cope with grief. It celebrates the enduring legacy and influence of the king's music, highlighting how it continues to resonate and provide solace to fans even after their passing.