Bed Of Nails
Alice Cooper
The Painful Pleasure of Love: Alice Cooper's 'Bed Of Nails'
Alice Cooper's 'Bed Of Nails' delves into the complex and often paradoxical nature of love, where pain and pleasure intertwine. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a tumultuous relationship characterized by intense emotions and physical sensations. The metaphor of a 'bed of nails' is central to the song, symbolizing the idea that love can be both excruciating and exhilarating. This duality is further emphasized by lines like 'Love hurts good on a bed of nails,' suggesting that the pain experienced in the relationship is also a source of pleasure and excitement.
The lyrics also explore the concept of opposites attracting, as seen in the lines 'Opposites attract, that's the reason why.' This idea is reinforced by the imagery of fighting and making up, with phrases like 'We're gonna fight, we do it every night' and 'First we're gonna kiss, then we're gonna say dirty little words.' The relationship is depicted as a constant push and pull, where the intensity of their emotions keeps them deeply connected despite the pain they inflict on each other. This dynamic is further highlighted by the repeated assertion that 'No one else could make you feel like I do,' emphasizing the unique and irreplaceable nature of their bond.
Alice Cooper's signature theatrical style is evident throughout the song, with its dramatic and vivid imagery. The use of phrases like 'I'll drive you like a hammer on a bed of nails' and 'Baby, put me in your slammer' adds a layer of dark, almost masochistic allure to the relationship. This theatricality is a hallmark of Cooper's music, which often explores themes of love, pain, and the darker aspects of human nature. 'Bed Of Nails' is a powerful exploration of the complexities of love, capturing the intense emotions and contradictions that often define passionate relationships.