Key phrase: "The continent's just fallen in disgrace." Everyone was relieved WWI was over, but also aware nothing had been resolved (and the situation had in fact become worse, as is clear in hindsight).
The title of the album refers obliquely to diplomatic meetings which took place after the war. Though in exactly what way, I can't explicate. Perhaps it was more of a jumping-off point, as opposed to a theme. Most of the songs seem more personal, with occasional political or cultural references.
"William William" etc. could be Leighton William Rogers. I don't know. My knowledge of world history is poor (as is typical of Americans).
A wonderful phrase, isn't it: "...open up the door and vaguely carry us away," somewhat reminiscent of "seducing down the door" from Paris 1919's lead-off track "A Child's Christmas in Wales".
Though my favorite here has to be "maids of honor singing crying singing tediously," Cale's brilliant phrasing maintaining the same tone of melancholy whimsy as elsewhere, avoiding lapsing into silliness. Not an easy trick; compare Robyn Hitchcock's "My Wife and My Dead Wife" (also a great song but definitely silly).
Key phrase: "The continent's just fallen in disgrace." Everyone was relieved WWI was over, but also aware nothing had been resolved (and the situation had in fact become worse, as is clear in hindsight).
The title of the album refers obliquely to diplomatic meetings which took place after the war. Though in exactly what way, I can't explicate. Perhaps it was more of a jumping-off point, as opposed to a theme. Most of the songs seem more personal, with occasional political or cultural references.
"William William" etc. could be Leighton William Rogers. I don't know. My knowledge of world history is poor (as is typical of Americans).
A wonderful phrase, isn't it: "...open up the door and vaguely carry us away," somewhat reminiscent of "seducing down the door" from Paris 1919's lead-off track "A Child's Christmas in Wales".
Though my favorite here has to be "maids of honor singing crying singing tediously," Cale's brilliant phrasing maintaining the same tone of melancholy whimsy as elsewhere, avoiding lapsing into silliness. Not an easy trick; compare Robyn Hitchcock's "My Wife and My Dead Wife" (also a great song but definitely silly).
I’m fairly certain that “William William William Rogers” has to be Capt. WIlliam Wendell Rogers, the British WWI flying ace: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Wendell_Rogers
I’m fairly certain that “William William William Rogers” has to be Capt. WIlliam Wendell Rogers, the British WWI flying ace: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Wendell_Rogers