Volbeat’s “The Devil’s Bleeding Crown” is a vivid narrative, rich in symbolism and dark imagery. It’s a tale of fallen angels, rebellion, and a struggle for power. The song speaks about the fall from grace and the ensuing chaos. It’s not about a specific person but rather a metaphorical character – the devil’s spawn. The songwriter uses this character to explore themes of power, corruption, and the consequences of one’s actions. The song seems to act as a cautionary tale, warning about the seduction of power and its inevitable downfall.
So, why should you keep reading? Because there’s more to this song than meets the eye. We’re not just talking about fallen angels and devilish crowns. It’s a journey through symbolic storytelling, where each line holds a deeper meaning waiting to be uncovered.
“The Devil’s Bleeding Crown” Lyrics Meaning
The song begins with a dramatic scene: “Falling from the sky, they’re cast out from the heaven’s light.” This immediately sets a tone of downfall and exile, suggesting a fall from grace, reminiscent of the fallen angels in religious texts.
“Drenching the soil with blood, baptized in the fire hole” continues this theme. The imagery of blood and fire symbolizes destruction and perhaps, rebirth. It’s a baptism not into sanctity but into chaos and anarchy.
The chorus, “The devil’s spawn no longer breathes / Descending angels and fallen kings / Raise your hands, what do you hold? / The devil’s bleeding crown,” is particularly intriguing. It speaks to the end of a tyrannical reign – the devil’s spawn ceasing to breathe. The ‘bleeding crown’ could symbolize the cost of power and the bloodshed it brings.
“Call upon it’s father, bless the goat, the womanizer” references perhaps to ancient deities and rituals. It could be interpreting the devil as a symbol of temptation and forbidden knowledge. The mention of “Inanna’s temple of Uruk” links the song to mythological themes and the power struggles of gods and mortals.
The song then paints a haunting picture: “They gathered all the children outside the church / And never would they know what went on in there.” This line suggests secrecy and the hidden, often dark, aspects of power and religion.
“Down, down, down / Down below you can hear his hoof digging through the ground” – this creates a sense of impending doom, the return of a powerful force, possibly the devil, reclaiming his crown and authority.
The Story Behind “The Devil’s Bleeding Crown”
When Volbeat wrote this song, they were likely influenced by themes of power, rebellion, and the consequences of one’s actions. It’s not just a narrative about supernatural beings; it’s a metaphor for human struggles and the allure of power.
The songwriter’s state of mind appears to have been focused on exploring these dark themes. They dive into mythological and religious symbolism to tell a story that is as timeless as it is foreboding. The song can be seen as a reflection on the nature of power – how it corrupts, how it’s fought over, and the inevitable downfall it brings.
By integrating these elements, Volbeat doesn’t just create a song; they craft a narrative that echoes with historical, religious, and mythological references. It’s a story that resonates because it speaks to the universal human experience with power, temptation, and the cost of ambition. The “Devil’s Bleeding Crown” becomes more than a symbol; it’s a testament to the fallibility and the hubris of those who seek power at any cost.