Dinosaur

King Crimson's song 'Dinosaur' delves into themes of self-reflection, regret, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man looking back on his younger years, acknowledging his naivety and the mistakes he made. The metaphor of a dinosaur, a creature from a long-gone era, is used to symbolize the protagonist's feelings of being outdated and out of place in the present. This sense of being a relic is further emphasized by the imagery of 'somebody digging my bones,' suggesting that his past is being unearthed and scrutinized.

The song's protagonist admits to excelling in ignorance, naivety, and pride, traits that made him an easy target for more cunning individuals. The line 'Doesn't take a scientist to see how any clever predator could have a piece of me' underscores his vulnerability and the ease with which he was taken advantage of. The repeated phrase 'idiot savant' highlights the paradox of being knowledgeable in some areas while being utterly clueless in others, reinforcing the theme of self-awareness and the harsh lessons learned over time.

As the protagonist reflects on his past, he marvels at his survival despite the numerous mistakes and poor judgments he made. The line 'It's a wonder I'm not yet extinct' captures his astonishment at having endured through it all. The song concludes with a poignant realization that being overly nice has its drawbacks, and the protagonist acknowledges that he has made his 'fossil bed' and must now live with the consequences. This introspective journey through the protagonist's past serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of self-awareness and the impact of one's actions over time.