The meaning and story of Ultravox's song "King's Lead Hat" is open to interpretation and has been subject to various theories. It is widely believed that the title of the song is an anagram for "Talking Heads," another popular new wave band from the same era. The lyrics of the song contain abstract imagery and metaphors, making it difficult to pinpoint a specific narrative or meaning. However, there are a few recurring themes that can be observed. Throughout the song, there are references to technology, specifically phones and satellites. The line "The captain's here but nobody hears, the king's hat fits over their ears" suggests a theme of people not truly listening or understanding what is happening around them, possibly due to the overwhelming influence of technology. The line "The biology of purpose keeps my nose above the surface" could reflect the idea of survival and navigating through life despite challenges and distractions. There are also references to travel, with mentions of New Delhi and Hong Kong, as well as a black car and a ship turning back to shore. These could symbolize a journey or a quest for something. The lyrics also touch on themes of power and control, with lines like "The king's hat" and "King's lead hat put the innocence inside her." These lines could be referencing someone in a position of authority manipulating or influencing others. Overall, "King's Lead Hat" is a cryptic and abstract song that leaves room for individual interpretation. The lyrics evoke a sense of mystery and intrigue, inviting listeners to find their own meaning within the poetic imagery.
