The English progressive rock band King Crimson was formed in London in 1968. It has undergone numerous formations throughout its history, but its guitarist and founder Robert Fripp has remained its only constant member. Their debut studio album In the Court of the Crimson King (subtitled An Observation by King Crimson) was released on October 10, 1969. It is considered one of the first and most influential progressive rock albums ever released.

Its fourth track “Moonchild” was composed by the band members Robert Fripp, Ian McDonald, Greg Lake, and Michael Giles, and the lyrics were written by the poet and songwriter Peter Sinfield, who acted as the band’s lyricist and stage technician. It consists of two parts, first “The Dream,” the song, then “The Illusion,” a long guitar instrumental played by Robert Fripp. The full version can be heard on Dailymotion. There are many YouTube videos of the first part, I have chosen one that is illustrated by beautiful artworks from the late 19th century.

The lyrics are accurately reproduced by Genius. You can admire Sinfield’s beautiful poetry and surreal imagery:

Moonchild

Call her moonchild
Dancing in the shallows of a river
Lonely moonchild
Dreaming in the shadows of the willow

Talking to the trees of the cobweb strange
Sleeping on the steps of a fountain
Waving silver wands to the night-bird’s song
Waiting for the sun on the mountain

She’s a moonchild
Gathering the flowers in a garden
Lovely moonchild
Drifting in the echoes of the hours

Sailing on the wind in a milk white gown
Dropping circle stones on a sun dial
Playing hide and seek with the ghosts of dawn
Waiting for a smile from a sun child