Unless I read the lyrics they are mostly just another instrument to me, especially on the first listen. The music changed tone on Center of Attraction and the album never got back completely to the sound on the first tracks. Center if Attraction, after the intro, is the most traditional sounding track.
@Cousin-Cletus I hear music the exact same way. Usually I just let it wash over me in the first listen. If the lyrics, storytelling, etc. are important to the album, I'll make that the focus on a second listen. This album is so rich in production I'm usually less focused on the lyrics no matter how many times I hear it. I did just give it a spin with lyrics in hand, though. I'm not sure if I see a massive evolution of the character across tracks. He did play a role in the overarching story in the album, though. I mean...he died. 😂