The King Must Die by Elton John is a poignant and somewhat tragic song that delves into the themes of downfall, betrayal, and the transient nature of power. The lyrics narrate the story of a king who faces inevitable doom, highlighting the betrayal by those he trusted and his own inner turmoil. The protagonist's realization that he was merely a pawn in a larger game makes for a particularly poignant moment. This song reflects on the fragility of leadership and the often-fatal consequences of losing the support of one's followers.