Fleetwood Mac – “Sisters of the Moon” Lyrics Meaning

This song isn’t just another tune to tap your foot to—it’s a mysterious ode, possibly touching on the allure and mystique of a woman compared to a “sister of the moon.” It hints at deep connections beyond mere romantic or material desires, speaking to a spiritual or mystical bond. It’s as if the songwriter is expressing an encounter with a captivating presence, someone both celebrated and misunderstood by those around her. The essence of the song seems to be about perception, recognition, and the complex nature of human relationships.

Why not stay a while and uncover the secrets of “Sisters of the Moon”? Keep reading, and let’s explore the shadows and light of this haunting tune together.


“Sisters of the Moon” Lyrics Meaning

“Sisters of the Moon” kicks off with “intense silence,” a line that immediately sets a tone of profound seriousness. The woman in black robes trailing like a “Sister of the moon” enters, exuding an almost supernatural aura. This isn’t your average girl-next-door; she’s someone or something far more complex and otherworldly.

The “black widow spider” line could signify danger or the idea that she’s misunderstood—feared for her power and presence rather than the noise she makes. “Black moons” in her eyes suggest a deep, possibly dark wisdom that’s more relatable to the singer than the regular world.

As the song unfolds, there’s a sense of unavoidable attraction, “Heavy persuasion” making it hard to breathe. She beckons from atop the stairs, and like many of us when faced with the inexplicable, the singer follows “as friends often do.” There’s an acknowledgment of an unspoken understanding; it’s not about “love nor money,” indicating a bond that transcends the usual motivations for companionship.

People’s admiration and cruelty set a paradoxical stage—she’s loved, yet not kindly treated. Her invitation to the singer to “Be my sister” implies seeking kinship in someone who perhaps sees beyond the facade to who she really is.

In the last stanza, the multiple perceptions about the woman are brought to light. She’s a “sister of the moon” to some, a mere illusionist to others. The question of her identity is wrapped in metaphorical velvet—suggesting luxury and concealment—and yet, her name, her true nature, remains unknown. It’s a powerful commentary on how we perceive those who are different, enigmatic, and defy easy categorization.

The Story Behind “Sisters of the Moon”

Stevie Nicks, the enchanting voice and pen behind the song, is known for her fascination with mysticism and her poetic, sometimes cryptic lyrics. In her world, reality intertwines with fantasy, dreams meld with waking thoughts, and nothing is ever simply black or white. Nicks’ songs frequently draw from her own experiences and emotions, transforming them into the timeless music that Fleetwood Mac is known for.

“Sisters of the Moon” could be a reflection of Nicks’ own state of mind at the time—her feelings of isolation or being misunderstood, even while being in the limelight. Artists often feel on the periphery, observing the world but not fully embraced by it. The contrasting love and cruelty of the public might mirror her personal encounters with fame and those around her.

The “sister of the moon” could be a persona, an alter ego, or a kindred spirit—someone who shares her sense of separation from the ordinary. Writing this song might have been a way for Nicks to process her complex feelings, to reach out through her music to those who felt the same, and to perhaps find solace in the shared experience of being set apart, different, and deeply misunderstood.