Gods And Monsters

“Gods And Monsters” by American Horror Story delves into the tumultuous and often destructive world of fame and excess. The song opens with the protagonist describing themselves as an angel in a land of gods and monsters, a metaphor for the entertainment industry. This 'garden of evil' is a place where innocence is corrupted, and the protagonist finds themselves doing whatever it takes to survive, shining brightly but at a great personal cost.

The lyrics reference the allure of fame, liquor, and love as a form of 'medicine' that the protagonist craves. This craving is juxtaposed with a sense of disillusionment with God, suggesting a loss of faith and a turn towards hedonistic pleasures. The mention of living like Jim Morrison, the iconic frontman of The Doors known for his wild lifestyle, further emphasizes the theme of self-destruction and the pursuit of a 'messed up holiday.' The repeated phrase 'innocence lost' underscores the central theme of the song, highlighting the protagonist's fall from grace and the irreversible changes brought about by their choices.

The song also explores the idea of life imitating art, with the protagonist feeling like a groupie posing as a real singer. This blurring of reality and performance suggests a deep sense of identity crisis and the pressures of maintaining a facade. The lyrics convey a sense of desperation and resignation, with the protagonist acknowledging that they don't want to know what's good for them and accepting the idea that 'God's dead.' This nihilistic outlook is both a coping mechanism and a reflection of the emptiness they feel.

The imagery of motels, sprees, and the desire for something that feels like heaven but results in lost innocence paints a vivid picture of the highs and lows of a life lived on the edge. The song captures the seductive yet destructive nature of fame, where the pursuit of pleasure and validation leads to a profound sense of loss and disillusionment.