The meaning of In The Wake Of Wine And Pollen by King Crimson

"In the Wake of Wine and Pollen" is a song from King Crimson's 1981 album "Discipline". The song is a departure from the band's earlier work, featuring a more refined and structured approach to their progressive rock sound.

The song's title itself is somewhat enigmatic, but can be interpreted as a reference to the fragility of life. Wine and pollen are both symbols of decay and impermanence, suggesting that the song may be exploring themes of mortality and the fleeting nature of human experience.

Musically, "In the Wake of Wine and Pollen" features a distinctive guitar riff and a strong emphasis on rhythm, with drummer Bill Bruford providing a driving beat. The song's arrangement is also notable for its use of space and restraint, allowing each individual element to breathe and take center stage in turn.

Lyrically, the song appears to be somewhat abstract and open to interpretation, but may be exploring themes of loss and longing. The lyrics themselves are sparse and impressionistic, with vocalist Adrian Belew delivering a haunting vocal performance that adds to the overall sense of melancholy and introspection.

Overall, "In the Wake of Wine and Pollen" is a standout track in King Crimson's discography, showcasing the band's ability to evolve and refine their sound while still maintaining their core identity as progressive rock innovators.