Roger Waters - In the Flesh Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the main concept of the album The Wall?

   The Wall tells the story of Pink, a rock star who becomes isolated from the world. Through various traumatic events, including the death of his father, overprotective mother, and failed relationships, he builds a metaphorical wall around himself, culminating in a breakdown and subsequent hallucination of being a fascist dictator.

2. How does 'In the Flesh?' differ from 'In the Flesh' on the album The Wall?

   'In the Flesh?' is the opening track that introduces the story of Pink and the concept of the album. 'In the Flesh' is a reprise located later in the album, featuring a choir, different verses, and an extended instrumental arrangement. It marks the start of Pink's transformation into a dictator in his hallucination.

3. What does the line 'Isn't this where...' at the end of 'Outside the Wall' signify?

   The line 'Isn't this where...' at the end of 'Outside the Wall' is completed by the phrase '... we came in?' at the start of 'In the Flesh?' This cyclical nature demonstrates the album's concept of cycles and endings leading to new beginnings, much like The Dark Side of the Moon's use of a heartbeat.

4. Why did Roger Waters want to parody mindless stadium rock in 'In the Flesh'?

   Roger Waters wanted to parody mindless stadium rock because of his experiences during the 1977 In the Flesh Tour. Waters felt disconnected from rowdy stadium audiences and envisioned a figurative wall between the band and the crowd, inspiring the concept for The Wall.

5. What is the significance of the Nazi-like imagery in 'In the Flesh'?

   The Nazi-like imagery in 'In the Flesh' emphasizes the dangers of idolatry and blind devotion. In the song, Pink's drug-induced hallucination turns him into a fascist dictator, mimicking real-life events where leaders incited hatred and violence against minorities. This underscores the theme of losing one's humanity in the quest for power.

6. How was 'In the Flesh' performed during live tours and in the movie adaptation?

   During live tours, such as The Wall Live, backing musicians wore masks to look like the real band, playing into the concept of a 'surrogate band.' In the 1982 movie, Bob Geldof, portraying Pink, sings the song dressed as a dictator with Nazi-like decor and insignia to symbolize Pink's breakdown and megalomania.