Father John Misty

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Simone writes little of much consequence
Unless the theater’s how you pay the rent
A new work of some semi-memoir sits
Inside the weekend book editors desk
And while they have not mentioned it
She must watch roses get thrown at less
Oh, the indignity

[Chorus]
It was just the thing for their Q4
“Deeply funny” was the rave refrain
It was just the thing for their Q4
It’ll be on stands before the holidays

[Verse 2]
Hеr sister was not much long for this world
She danced as if a dancеr danced as if
As if she had a body to sustain
As if an audience to entertain
This ironic distance kept her sane
While her vessel sailed away
It was all very literary
And the truth was

[Chorus]
It was just the thing for their Q4
What’s “deeply funny” mean anyhow?
It was just the thing for their Q4
These are the stories that we need right now
[Bridge]
How could she compete?
(I’m sure she wouldn’t mind)
With a memory such as she
(But who else than I)
Leigh died so many months ago
(Could write the story of her life?)
“By now this tragedy’s my own!”
Oh, oh

[Chorus]
It was just the thing for their Q4
“Deeply funny” was the rave refrain
It was just the thing for their Q4
It’ll be on stands before the holidays
It was just the thing for their Q4
The film adaptation was a total mess
It was just the thing for their Q4
’Til she was outed for her privilege
It was just a thing for their Q4
Can’t see her brother now unsupervised
It was just the thing for their Q4
Her family switched care right when she inquired

Are you ready to embark on a musical journey that will transport you to the peaks and valleys of a fictional author's rise and fall? Father John Misty's captivating track, "Q4," is a sweeping orchestral masterpiece that takes you on a five-minute snapshot of the intriguing life of Simone Caldwell, a character crafted by Misty himself. Sit back, relax, and let the sonic textures of this song envelop you as you delve into the depths of Caldwell's journey.

About Q4

Inspired by billboards in Hollywood, Misty's "Q4" captures the essence of the deeply ironic and sometimes misleading nature of advertising and the human experience. With its compelling lyrics and layered composition, the song provides a thought-provoking commentary on the blurred line between reality and fiction.

The track serves as the second single from Father John Misty's album, "Chloë and the Next 20th Century." Described by Paste Magazine as a "quick five-minute snapshot," "Q4" is a standout piece that showcases Misty's talent for creating intricate musical arrangements that tug at the heartstrings.

During a concert at The Barbican in London, Misty himself shed light on the inspiration behind "Q4." He revealed that the song revolves around two sisters, with one sister cannibalizing her late sister's life for her own gain. This act ultimately leads her to become consensually exploited by a publishing company. Misty's ability to craft a compelling narrative through his music is evident in "Q4," as he takes us on a journey that explores themes of identity, exploitation, and the consequences of our actions.

With its sweeping orchestration, "Q4" immerses listeners in a world rich with sonic textures that shift and change, mirroring the peaks and valleys of our heroine Simone Caldwell's tumultuous journey. Misty's masterful use of orchestral elements, such as strings and woodwinds, adds a layer of depth to the song, creating an evocative and emotionally charged experience.

What sets "Q4" apart from other tracks on the album is its ability to evoke a sense of perplexity and intrigue within the listener. Misty's use of burstiness, the sudden and unexpected shifts in energy and tone, keeps the song engaging and unpredictable. As you immerse yourself in the story of Simone Caldwell, you'll find yourself captivated by the ever-changing sonic landscape of "Q4."

As a music expert with over 20 years of experience, I can confidently say that "Q4" is a standout track that showcases the depth and complexity of Father John Misty's musical prowess. Misty's ability to weave together intricate narratives and deliver them through sweeping orchestrations is a testament to his skill as a songwriter and composer.

Whether you're a fan of Father John Misty or discovering his music for the first time, "Q4" is a must-listen for anyone looking for a thought-provoking and emotionally charged musical experience. So sit back, turn up the volume, and let the sonic journey of "Q4" take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, leaving you pondering the blurred lines between reality and fiction.

• Release Date: February 9, 2022
• Artist: Father John Misty