2. Doom/Sludge band from Saramento, CA - formed by members of Caulfield
Not to be confused with Australian 1980’s band The Church most famous for their hit-single “Under The Milky Way”.
Columbus
Church Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
I should have told him no
Oh, Columbus
I never should have let you go
Now, aching wires, midnight fires
Things I could not know
Oh, Columbus
I never should have let you go
You don't suppose there'd
Be room in here somewhere for me
I think I just need
Someone's words to reassure me
I don't blame any of you
And I don't blame myself
Waiting for my small reward
It's going to come somehow
Oh, Columbus
I wish that you could see us now
We don't posses a single empty tear
Or furrowed brow
Oh, Columbus
I wish that you could see us now
You don't suppose there'd
Be room in here somewhere for me
I think I just need
Someone's words to reassure me
I can't change any of you
I can't change myself
The man had something strange about him
He should have let me know
Oh, Columbus
I wish I'd never let you go
You don't suppose there'd
Be room in here somewhere for me
I think I just need
Someone's words to reassure me
I don't blame any of you
And I don't blame myself
Columbus
is a song by Church that deals with the themes of regret, longing, and loss. The song is about the singer's remorse over not standing up to a "king" who made a decision that they disagreed with, which resulted in someone named Columbus leaving. The singer deeply regrets this and now is left with the ache of knowing things they couldn't have known at the time. Late at night, the singer wishes for someone to reassure them that everything will be okay. The song speaks to the idea of missed opportunities and the feeling of being stuck in a situation that can't be changed.
The use of Columbus in the title and throughout the song is intriguing as it is unclear whether it refers to a person, a symbol of discovery, or perhaps both. The name itself has a historical significance, with Columbus being widely known for discovering the Americas. However, the lyrics suggest that this Columbus is someone the singer personally knew and held in high esteem. This ambiguity keeps the listener engaged and curious about the true meaning of the song.
Line by Line Meaning
The king had something changed within him
The king underwent a change that affected him in some way.
I should have told him no
I regret not refusing the request made of me.
Oh, Columbus
An expression of melancholy directed towards Columbus.
I never should have let you go
I regret allowing Columbus to leave.
Now, aching wires, midnight fires
I am experiencing discomfort due to circumstances beyond my control.
Things I could not know
I am encountering unexpected challenges.
You don't suppose there'd
Be room in here somewhere for me
I am wondering if there is space for me in this new and unfamiliar situation.
I think I just need
Someone's words to reassure me
I believe that hearing words of comfort from another person would help me feel better.
I don't blame any of you
And I don't blame myself
I do not hold anyone else responsible for my current situation, nor do I hold myself responsible.
Waiting for my small reward
It's going to come somehow
I am anticipating a small reward for my previous efforts, which I am confident will arrive eventually.
Oh, Columbus
I wish that you could see us now
I am expressing regret to Columbus that he is not present to witness the current state of affairs.
We don't posses a single empty tear
Or furrowed brow
Despite the challenges we are facing, we are maintaining composure and not showing signs of distress.
The man had something strange about him
He should have let me know
I am reflecting on the peculiar behavior of someone, and I believe they should have communicated with me about it.
I wish I'd never let you go
I regret allowing Columbus to leave, and wish that he were still here.
I can't change any of you
I can't change myself
I am acknowledging that I am not capable of altering others or myself.
Contributed by Scarlett H. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@HerAeolianHarp
Coming back again to appreciate the intelligence and artistry of Steve K. and his far-reaching lyrics.
@therealshrimpleypibbles
I recall listening to this album in 1991 for the first time after getting into a band of my own. I remember sitting in front of my stereo with my headphones on and getting so depressed while listening to it knowing that I would never be able to make an album that good. The entire atmosphere of it just put me in this mood. Marty Wilson-Piper’s guitar work has always been an emotional ride, but this album just did something to me that no album has ever done since. Definitely in my Top 5 Deserted Island list since the first listen.
@iancrombie8862
I love this song...genius song writer!!!!
@BrutusMcCrunch
Possibly the most underrated band of the past 30 years
@vsander09
40 years now ;)
@keithbate9405
@Vincent Sander So many candidates for that accolade eg Wall of Voodoo, Dream Syndicate, Twelfth Night , Thin White Rope, Husker Du, Throwing Muses etc.
@everymandan4176
@Keith Bate the Chameleons.
@keithbate9405
@Everyman Dan Yes I like them too. Heavily influenced by Joy Division of course.
@everymandan4176
@Keith Bate For sure in the vocal delivery but not much else. Chameleons guitar work is miles away from JD. For me they're closer to the church; 2 dueling lead guitarist, singing bassist and a unique drummer. Kilbey sings from a Bowie-cool detached place, Burgess is more standingonthetoesfordearlife delivery.
@splat66
I'm firstly a total metalhead, but I've always loved this band. I bought Heydey on cassette when it came out, and it still holds up to this day. My favorite song from the album! Thanks