Roland,, described as "the male Kate Bush" by one-time label mate Robyn Hitchcock, has released a series of albums for collectable labels such as Bam Caruso, New Rose and Imaginary in a low-key career that has seen him acclaimed on the continent but somewhat ignored in his native country. In England he is better known as a writer of mass market books on mysticism and the occult for major publishers. However, his reputation as a uniquely imaginative and consistently fascinating figure on the psych-pop circuit has substantially increased with each album. Other cult figures such as Robyn Hitchcock, Nick Saloman (Bevis Frond), Nick Nicely, and Andy Ellison (John's Children) have made guest appearances on his albums, several of which are now listed as highly collectable.
Since 1979 Paul has been spinning his bizarre tales in music. Among his more whimsical creations are the eccentric characters on the largely acoustic album "Happy Families" and its prequel "A Cabinet of Curiosities".
His first album "The Werewolf of London" (1980) which boasted a penchant for historical and supernatural themes was picked up by Armageddon Records, who at the time also had the Soft Boys on their roster.
And it was there that Paul met Robyn Hitchcock who later appeared on tracks for Paul's second album.
After an abortive flirtation with the music business, when he was managed by David Enthoven and June Bolan (widow of Marc Bolan), he returned to Armageddon in 1985 for the mini-album "Burnt Orchids".
Its title track was the first to feature Paul backed by a small string and woodwind ensemble, a trademark of all his albums to date.
The success of the album led to Paul's first tours in Europe and label deals in France, Germany, Greece, Italy, the USA and Japan.
A series of diverse albums followed, including the psych cult classic "Danse Macabre" (1987), the acoustic based mini LPs "A Cabinet of Curiosities" (1987) and "Happy Families" (1988), the rockier "Duel" (1989) with its medieval-tinged three-song suite "The King Must Die", the folk rock of "Masque" (1990), the more commercial "Roaring Boys" (1991), "Strychnine" (1992), a mini-album of cover versions and "Sarabande" (1994). "Gargoyles" (1996) and "Pavane" (2004). Many albums have followed.
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Burn
Paul Roland Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
There's no sound in the dormitory
All the boys are sleeping soundly
Softly softly, catchee monkey
Now I have here the answer
To those who said I couldn't learn
Something science has taught me
Now this place is going to burn
There's a tendency at hight tempreture
For the flame to grow somewhat higher
Then my friend you've got yourself a fire
Now I have here the answer
To those who said I couldn't learn
Something science has taught me
Now this place is going to burn
The lyrics to Paul Roland's song Burn tell a story about a character who is seeking revenge against those who doubted his abilities by burning down a building, likely a school or boarding house. The first stanza paints a vivid picture of a quiet, dark environment. The mention of the master's study suggests that this is a boarding school, and the reference to the boys being asleep adds to the sense of stillness. The phrase "softly softly, catchee monkey" is an old English saying that means to proceed cautiously, which adds to the sense of sinister intent.
The second stanza describes how the singer has gained knowledge through science and is now prepared to carry out their revenge. The use of the phrase "something science has taught me" suggests that the character has been underestimated or belittled, and has now learned something that will prove the doubters wrong. The description of how a gas can lead to a fire creates a sense of tension and danger, and the line "then my friend you've got yourself a fire" suggests an almost gleeful anticipation of the destruction to come.
Overall, the lyrics to Burn are a cautionary tale about the danger of underestimating and undervaluing people. The character in the song has been pushed too far and seeks to prove their worth through destruction. The use of specific details and vivid imagery creates a sense of atmosphere and tension that adds to the impact of the story.
Line by Line Meaning
No light leaks from the master's study
The master's study is completely dark and there is no light escaping.
There's no sound in the dormitory
The dormitory is completely silent and there is no noise heard.
All the boys are sleeping soundly
All the boys in the dormitory are sleeping deeply and peacefully.
Softly softly, catchee monkey
The plan being executed should be done quietly and carefully to avoid detection, just like catching a monkey stealthily.
Now I have here the answer
The artist has found a solution to a problem they previously faced.
To those who said I couldn't learn
There were individuals who doubted the singer's ability to acquire new knowledge.
Something science has taught me
The singer has learned something related to science that has helped them in some way.
Now this place is going to burn
The artist plans to set the building on fire using their newly acquired scientific knowledge.
When a gas is fed under pressure
If gas is released at a high pressure into a room, it can have a significant impact.
There's a tendency at hight tempreture
Under high temperatures, gases can act in a way that makes things more dangerous.
For the flame to grow somewhat higher
If the flame gets started, it will continue to grow and increase in intensity.
Then my friend you've got yourself a fire
Once the flame is present and growing, there is a full-fledged fire.
Contributed by Lila N. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Alexandra Wendl
GREAT!!!
promisedeyes
OH GOD YES