Song » Song Meanings » The Meaning Behind The Song: The Cinema Show by Genesis
Song Meanings / By Gerardo Beard
As a music enthusiast, I am always drawn to songs that tell a story or evoke deep emotions within me. One such song that has captured my heart is “The Cinema Show” by Genesis. I first heard this song on a rainy afternoon as I was browsing through my friend’s vinyl collection. Little did I know that this song would leave a lasting impact on me.
Table of Contents
The lyrics of “The Cinema Show” paint a vivid picture of two characters, Juliet and Romeo, each making their way to a cinema show. The opening verse introduces Juliet, who prepares for the day, adorning herself with pleasant scents to attract attention. However, it seems that she might be running late for the show, leaving us wondering if she will make it in time.
On the other hand, Romeo locks his basem*nt flat and hurries up the stairs, sporting confidence with his floral tie, symbolizing his status as a weekend millionaire. He eagerly anticipates spending the night with Juliet, expressing it with a passionate cry. It seems that both characters are yearning for love and connection.
The lyrics take an intriguing turn as they introduce Father Tiresias, an old figure who has experienced a multitude of life’s ups and downs. He serves as a guide, urging us to embark on a journey to discover the mysteries of life. The reference to crossing between the poles suggests exploring the extremes, delving into masculinity and femininity.
This section of the song resonates deeply with me. Like Father Tiresias, I, too, have embarked on a journey of self-discovery and understanding. The realization that there is more to life than the traditional binary concept of gender is profound. It encourages us to embrace our multifaceted nature and to explore the different aspects of ourselves, just as the sea and the earth coexist.
The instrumentation of “The Cinema Show” is equally enchanting. The song opens with a beautiful 12-string guitar melody, accompanied by the mesmerizing vocal harmonies between Peter Gabriel and Phil Collins. The addition of a flute and oboe solo adds a touch of elegance and richness to the composition.
As the song progresses, it culminates with a captivating four-and-a-half-minute keyboard solo by Tony Banks on the ARP Pro Soloist. The rhythm, played by Mike Rutherford and Collins, maintains a mesmerizing 7/8 time signature. This section of the song showcases the technical prowess of the band members and elevates the overall musicality of “The Cinema Show.”
“The Cinema Show” was featured on Genesis’ 1973 album “Selling England by the Pound.” The lyrics, written by Tony Banks and Rutherford, draw inspiration from the renowned T.S. Eliot poem “The Waste Land.” This intertextuality adds another layer of depth and nuance to the song, connecting it to the literary world.
Listening to “The Cinema Show,” I am transported into a world of emotions and contemplation. The song reminds me of the power of music to evoke feelings, to provoke thoughts, and to leave a lasting impact. It serves as a testament to the artistry and creativity of Genesis, capturing their ability to weave together intricate lyrics and complex musical arrangements.
I encourage you to take a listen to “The Cinema Show” and let yourself be swept away by its beauty. Dive into the depths of its lyrics and instrumentation, and discover the meaning it holds for you. Like me, you might find yourself captivated by this timeless piece of music.
Credits
Produced By Genesis & John Burns
Written By Tony Banks, Phil Collins, Peter Gabriel, Steve Hackett & Mike Rutherford
Recorded At Island Studios, London, UK, August 1973
Release Date October 13, 1973
Songs That Sample The Cinema Show:
- M.A.R.C.I.O. by Mondo Marcio
The Cinema Show Interpolations:
- Dancing with the Moonlit Knight by Genesis
The Cinema Show Remixes:
- The Cinema Show (2004 Remix) by Genesis
The Cinema Show Live Performances:
- The Cinema Show (Live from Pavillon de Paris, Paris, 23rd June 1976) by Genesis (Ft. Bill Bruford)
- In the Cage (Medley: The Cinema Show / Slippermen) (Live from N.E.C., Birmingham, 23rd December 1981) by Genesis
- In the Cage (Live from Old Trafford Football Stadium, Manchester, 7th July 2007) by Genesis
Tags
- Rock
- Seventies
- British Rock
- Progressive Rock
