First of all, this is a fantastic piece. Awesome strings, and, as usual, drop-dead vocals by Chris Martin. I think I can agree with Foundgiven the most. I've studied King Louis and have found it doesn't relate to him as much as people think. I think the only way in which Coldplay is going for the French history is in the new album cover. I believe this song has to do more with faith and a non-specific being's fall from dominance. The "pillars of salt, pillars of sand" refer to the fragility of a man's kingdom. He was once loved and respected and powerful, but the tables turned on him quickly, his kingdom falling. The lyrics leave it up to us to consider how exactly this happened. This man believing that "Saint Peter won't call my name" covers the religious side of the lyrics. Saint Peter not calling his name suggests that he thinks he won't go to Heaven. He appears to be taken over by the peoples' cruelty in turning on him, making him out to be a "sinful" person. Whatever your interpretation is, just remember to try not to get too caught up in analyzing it. You can get lost in the powerfulness of the music itself.