The Meaning Behind The Song: The Night Watch by King Crimson
The Night Watch is a song by the progressive rock band King Crimson, released in 1974 as part of their album Starless and Bible Black. This song examines one of Rembrandt’s most famous paintings – “Militia Company of District II under the Command of Captain Frans Banninck Cocq,” more commonly known as “The Night Watch” – from several different perspectives.
The Night Watch
| Title | The Night Watch |
|---|---|
| Artist | King Crimson |
| Writer/Composer | Robert Fripp, John Wetton & Richard Palmer-James |
| Album | Starless and Bible Black (1974) |
| Release Date | March 29, 1974 |
| Genre | Progressive Rock |
| Producer | King Crimson |
Verses one and two of the song are from the perspective of a contemporary viewer of the painting. The speaker stands in front of The Night Watch, inspired by the watch depicted in the painting, which has stood guard for the thousands of intervening nights. The golden light of the watch shines despite the passing of three hundred years, yet it is now grimy and worn. The worthy Captain and his squad of troopers are still standing fast in their prime, representing the endurance and resilience of those who dedicate themselves to protect and serve.
As we move into verses three and four, the perspective shifts back to Rembrandt’s time and the painting of The Night Watch. Rembrandt, the artist, knew their faces well – the husbands of his lady friends, his creditors, councillors, and the merchant men. The painting captures official moments of the guild, frozen in time to represent the bygone days. Rembrandt is transfixed by the sights and smells of the scene, determined to preserve the essence of Dutch respectability and the way of life he and his contemporaries cherish. The redbrick homes, the bourgeoisie, and even guitar lessons for the wife become symbols of a way of life that Rembrandt wants to immortalize.
The Night Watch reflects a significant moment in history, where the country suffered through Spanish wars. However, this era also offers the chance for quiet and self-reflection. Rembrandt and his contemporaries think about posterity, about the legacy they will leave behind. The painting of The Night Watch becomes a symbol of the pride of little men, the burghers good and true, who continue to live on through the painter’s hands. They call upon modern viewers of the painting to understand the values and ideals they once guarded and to appreciate the significance of their actions.
The Night Watch by King Crimson is a powerful and evocative song that delves into the meaning behind Rembrandt’s famous painting. It reminds us of the enduring importance of history, of the people who came before us and the values they held dear. This song resonates with me personally as it reminds me of the power of art in capturing moments in time and preserving them for future generations. It also serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who defended their way of life, inspiring us to reflect on the values we hold today.
Listening to The Night Watch, I am transported to another time and place, surrounded by the sights and sounds of Rembrandt’s studio. The vivid imagery and descriptive lyrics paint a picture in my mind, allowing me to experience the emotions and atmosphere of the painting. The combination of Robert Fripp’s guitar, John Wetton’s vocals, and the intricate instrumentation creates a haunting and immersive musical experience.
In conclusion, The Night Watch by King Crimson is a thought-provoking song that explores the significance of Rembrandt’s painting from different perspectives. It captures the essence and spirit of the painting, inviting listeners to contemplate the values and ideals it represents. This song, like the painting itself, stands as a testament to the enduring power of art and its ability to transcend time and evoke emotions.
