Coldway

Viva la Vida I think this song is about St. Paul...a model for turning away from materialistic possessions and turning towards Christ. Paul was originally a Roman citizen who turned away from his Roman heritage to embrace Christ. Originally he hid behind his Roman citizenship anytime he got into trouble. He rolled the dice, etc. Supposedly, Paul never met Jesus before Jesus' crucifixion. Which also makes sense with the lyrics. It can also be taken to be generic and for everyone. It uses a lot of references which can be alluded to different historical figures. The Revolution can refer to the French Revolution and the head on a platter is John the Baptist and it goes on and on... If it is about one historical figure I believe it is Saint Paul (Saul of Tarsus) If it is more superficial it's a reference to figures throughout history and is just a "those who are rich now and abuse their power may not be rich at all, and surely will not be rich when it comes to the afterlife."