Mary On A Cross is a song by the indie rock band, FIDLAR, released in 2018 as part of their album, Almost Free. The song’s lyrics delve into complex themes and emotions, provoking deep thought and analysis. In this article, we will dissect the lyrics of Mary On A Cross to uncover the deeper meaning behind the words.
The Story Behind the Song
Before we delve into the lyrics, it’s essential to understand the context in which the song was written. Lead singer Zac Carper has been open about his struggles with addiction and mental health, and these personal experiences have undoubtedly influenced the band’s music. Mary On A Cross is no exception. The song addresses themes of addiction, spirituality, and self-destruction, providing a raw and unfiltered look into the inner turmoil experienced by many.
Breaking Down the Lyrics
Now, let’s take a closer look at the lyrics of Mary On A Cross and explore their deeper meaning:
Verse 1:
The sun goes down and the room goes dark
Your mind is getting sharp, you’re trapped inside your head
You think you’re everything, but you don’t know where you are
You think that you’re a king, but you’re lost within the stars
In the opening verse, the lyrics depict a sense of disorientation and inner turmoil. The reference to the sun going down and the room going dark suggests a feeling of hopelessness and despair. The lines “You think you’re everything, but you don’t know where you are” and “You think that you’re a king, but you’re lost within the stars” convey a powerful message about the destructive nature of self-delusion and egotism.
Chorus:
Mary’s in the backyard, high as a kite
Mary’s in the backyard, drying out her eyes
The chorus introduces the character of Mary, who is portrayed as being “high as a kite” and “drying out her eyes.” This imagery vividly captures the struggle of battling addiction and the pain that accompanies it. The use of Mary as a symbol further reinforces the song’s exploration of spirituality and self-destruction.
Verse 2:
Blow your smoke in the sky, watched it all go down
You’re telling me a lie while you’re acting like a child
The second verse delves deeper into the theme of self-deception and the consequences of one’s actions. The line “Blow your smoke in the sky, watched it all go down” suggests a sense of detachment and resignation, while “You’re telling me a lie while you’re acting like a child” confronts the immature and irresponsible behavior often associated with addiction.
Bridge:
Smoke another cigarette and then it’s time to go to bed
Feel it in your chest, let it all go
The bridge of the song offers a moment of reflection and release. The act of smoking a cigarette and feeling it in one’s chest can be interpreted as a metaphor for seeking comfort and solace in familiar vices. The line “let it all go” hints at the struggle to let go of pain and negativity, a sentiment that resonates deeply with those battling personal demons.
The Symbolism of “Mary On A Cross”
The title of the song, Mary On A Cross, holds significant symbolic weight and adds another layer of meaning to the lyrics. The juxtaposition of Mary, a figure often associated with purity and motherhood, with the imagery of a cross, a symbol of suffering and sacrifice, creates a powerful metaphor for the themes explored in the song.
The use of religious symbolism invites interpretations of spirituality, redemption, and the anguish of personal struggles. The choice of Mary as a central figure further underscores the themes of vulnerability, pain, and the search for meaning amidst inner turmoil.
The Universal Relevance of the Song
While Mary On A Cross is deeply personal to FIDLAR, its thematic depth and emotional resonance make it a song that has touched many listeners on a universal level. The struggles addressed in the lyrics – addiction, self-destruction, and the search for inner peace – are experiences that resonate with countless individuals.
The song’s raw honesty and unflinching portrayal of human frailty and resilience make it a cathartic and empowering listening experience for many. It serves as a reminder that no one is immune to the complexities of the human condition and that seeking help and understanding is a crucial step on the path to healing.
The Impact of “Mary On A Cross”
Since its release, Mary On A Cross has garnered critical acclaim for its compelling lyrics and raw emotional power. It has become an anthem for many struggling with addiction and mental health issues, resonating with its message of confronting personal demons and seeking hope amidst despair.
The song’s impact extends beyond its musical merits, as it has inspired open discussions about mental health and addiction. FIDLAR’s willingness to address these challenging topics through their music has sparked conversations and raised awareness, encouraging listeners to confront their own struggles and seek help.
Conclusion
Mary On A Cross stands as a powerful testament to the transformative potential of music. Its poignant lyrics and evocative symbolism provide a window into the complexities of the human experience, offering solace and understanding to those grappling with their own inner demons. By confronting themes of addiction, spirituality, and self-destruction with unflinching honesty, FIDLAR has created a song that resonates deeply with a diverse audience, initiating crucial conversations and fostering empathy.
The universal relevance of the song ensures that its impact will endure, providing comfort and validation to countless individuals navigating the turbulent waters of mental health and addiction. With its profound lyrical depth and emotional resonance, Mary On A Cross stands as a testament to the enduring power of music to illuminate the human experience.
As we continue to grapple with the complexities of our inner worlds, we can find solace and strength in the profound insights offered by Mary On A Cross, and the unwavering truth it embodies.
