"There Was A Saviour" by John Cale is a complex and poetic song that delves into themes of power, oppression, and the search for salvation. The song uses rich metaphors and vivid imagery to explore the human condition and the desire for deliverance. The song opens by introducing the saviour as someone rare and extraordinary, even more valuable than radium. However, they are also described as cruel and elusive, like the harsh reality of truth. The saviour's words are compared to a golden note turning in a groove, implying their ability to captivate and influence others. Children are depicted as being drawn to the saviour's voice, symbolizing the vulnerability and impressionability of youth. They cling onto his words as a source of hope and guidance. The saviour's smiles are described as keyless, possibly suggesting that his intentions are hidden or unpredictable. The voice of children, representing innocence and purity, speaks from a lost wilderness, expressing the need for peace and stability in the midst of chaos. The saviour's actions are seen as a form of unrest, as he brings calmness but also creates turmoil. When humans harm each other or the natural world, people take solace in the saviour's presence, using it to mask their fears. Silence is presented as a response to the overwhelming noise of the world, reflecting on the inaction or apathy of individuals. The mention of jails and asylums suggests that some have sought refuge from the tumultuous world but still struggle to find peace. The glory lies in the churches of the saviour's tears, implying that there is a divine quality to their emotions. The listener is portrayed as someone who could not cry, highlighting their emotional distance or inability to express their feelings. The mention of a tear for joy suggests a paradoxical response: finding happiness in the midst of sorrow. The song then shifts to the perspective of two brothers who are locked in winter, representing a sense of isolation and despair. They are unable to offer any solace or empathy when witnessing the greed and violence of humanity. Instead, they seek refuge in the sky-blue wall, distancing themselves from the harsh realities of the world. The song concludes by reflecting on the loss and destruction of homes and lives. The deaths of individuals go unnoticed and their stories remain untold. The listener is urged to break a tear for the unknown tragedies that have occurred. Overall, "There Was A Saviour" reflects on the complexities of the human experience, the longing for redemption, and the impact of power and oppression. It presents a somber and introspective commentary on the state of the world and the search for salvation amid chaos.
