"When The Curtain Falls" by Greta Van Fleet is a song about the rise and fall of a Hollywood star. The lyrics express admiration for the protagonist, who is described as great and loved by the narrator. The narrator is a devoted fan who is captivated by the protagonist's picture and believes it is the best in the land. The song talks about the glamorous life of the star, with references to camera lights, action, and their talent for words. However, it is also noted that this star is constantly going in and out of fashion, living in the paradoxical world of Hollywood, which can be described as both heaven and hell. As the song progresses, it becomes apparent that the star's fame and success come at a cost. The protagonist is depicted as a "valley doll," alluring but ultimately hollow. The line "They've taken all your things" implies that the star has lost much of their personal life and material possessions due to the demands of stardom. The chorus, "When the curtain falls, walk the hollow halls babe, once a valley doll, now you're not at all," suggests that the protagonist's fame has declined or come to an end. The once vibrant and admired personality has now been forgotten or faded away. Towards the end of the song, the narrator bids farewell, acknowledging that the star had a good run but may need to work on their craft at their age. The closing line, "Goodbye baby, goodbye," signifies the end of the fan's infatuation and the realization that the star's glory days have passed. In summary, "When The Curtain Falls" is a song that reflects on the highs and lows of fame and the fleeting nature of success in the entertainment industry. It depicts the story of a Hollywood star who experienced adoration from fans but ultimately faced the consequences of living in a world obsessed with appearances and fleeting trends.
