"Rook" is a song by Andy Partridge. It appeared on the 1992 album Nonsuch.
The demo appeared on Andy's Fuzzy Warbles Volume 5 in 2004.
Quotes[]
Andy: “I was frozen with writers block. Then suddenly this song came out. I was really frightened. I mean, I couldn't even finish the demo because I was in tears. It felt like seeing yourself in a mirror and recognising your own mortality. Maybe it's something in the chord changes. I don't understand the lyrics, which is rather exciting.”
Andy (on the demo): “There is a more primitive demo of this with acoustic guitar only, the instrument it was written on, but this fleshed out piano version from 6th Sept. 1990 was the one that literally reduced me to tears. One of the few times in my songwriting life where I've genuinely surprised myself, a great occurrence when it comes along, but one you obviously can't plan for. Inspiration doesn't come by the glass unfortunately.”
Lyrics[]
Rook, rook
Read from your book
Who murders who and where is the treasure hid?
Crow, crow
Spill all you know
Is that my name on the bell?
Rook, rook
Gaze in the brook
If there's a secret can I be part of it?
Crow, crow
Before I'll let go, say is that my name on the bell?
Soar up high, see the semaphore from the washing lines
Break the code of the whispering chimneys and traffic signs
What's the message that's written under the base of clouds?
Plans eternal, I know you know, so don't blurt out loud
Rook, rook
By hook or by crook
I'll make you tell me what this whole thing's about!
Crow, crow
Why can't you show
If that's my name on the bell?
On the wings of night, I fly too, above field and stream
My head bursting with knowledge 'till I wake from the dream
If I die and I find that I had a soul inside
Promise me that you'll take it up on its final ride
Rook, rook
Gaze in the brook
If there's a secret can I be part of it?
Crow, crow
Before I'll let go, say is that my name on the bell?
Is that my name on the bell?