Eve & Paradise Lost

Bastille's song "Eve & Paradise Lost" delves into the age-old biblical narrative of Adam and Eve, reimagining it through a modern lens. The lyrics explore themes of guilt, responsibility, and the complexities of love and sacrifice. The song opens with the protagonist, presumably Eve, expressing a sense of inevitable punishment for the original sin. She acknowledges the shared temptation and subsequent shame, yet feels a personal burden that she alone will bear the consequences. This sentiment is encapsulated in the line, "I've got this gut feeling that somehow only I will pay for it," highlighting the isolation and weight of her guilt.

The chorus reflects on the creation myth, where Eve is said to be made from Adam. This notion of being derived from another person adds layers of complexity to her identity and relationship. The lyrics, "When they say I was made from you, I love you so, but still it's hard to get my head around it," reveal a struggle to reconcile her love for Adam with the loss of autonomy and the burden of their shared sin. The repeated phrase, "But we ate the fruit," serves as a reminder of their mutual transgression and the irreversible consequences that followed.

The song also touches on the emotional and physical toll of bearing children and sins, a burden that Eve feels acutely. The imagery of "fluid dripping down our chins" and "carrying our babies and our sins" underscores the visceral and enduring impact of their actions. The repeated refrain, "A paradise lost," encapsulates the profound sense of loss and the high cost of their choices. Bastille's poignant lyrics and evocative storytelling invite listeners to reflect on themes of love, guilt, and the human condition, making "Eve & Paradise Lost" a deeply resonant and thought-provoking piece.