Meaning of "The Sleepwalkers" by Van Der Graaf Generator

"The Sleepwalkers" delves into the surreal and unsettling experience of being part of a mindless routine, symbolized by the sleepwalkers moving through the night without fully awakening. The lyrics touch on the idea of being caught in a cycle of existence that is both familiar and terrifying, where there is a constant search for meaning and understanding, but ultimately coming up short. The song delves into the nature of reality and the limitations of the human mind in comprehending the complexities of life, death, and the subconscious. The references to murder, passion, and the pendulum's swing suggest a constant tension between opposing forces within the human psyche. The repetition of the line "If I only had time" underscores a sense of urgency and a desire to unlock the mysteries of existence before it is too late. Overall, "The Sleepwalkers" paints a picture of a world where individuals are trapped in a state of semi-consciousness, longing for clarity and purpose but ultimately resigned to the unknowable nature of reality.