"Epitaph" is the third track on King Crimson's legendary 1969 debut album, In the Court of the Crimson King . Known for its haunting use of the Mellotron and Greg Lake’s powerful vocals, the song is a cornerstone of progressive rock. It is officially subtitled "Including 'March For No Reason' and 'Tomorrow And Tomorrow,'" representing an early example of the band's complex, multi-part compositions. Composition and Structure
The core ballad featuring verses and the iconic chorus "Confusion will be my epitaph". It is written in the key of E Minor , a choice that enhances its sorrowful tone. "Epitaph" is the third track on King Crimson's
This is often identified as the instrumental middle section. It features a somber flute and clarinet melody over an orchestral, methodical Timpani beat, which evokes the feeling of an aimless military march. Composition and Structure The core ballad featuring verses
The track was a group effort, evolving from an idea presented by Greg Lake during an evening rehearsal. While the specific divisions are not labeled on the original sleeve, they are generally understood as follows: It features a somber flute and clarinet melody