Locked Out of Heaven
Bastille
Transcendence Through Love: A Journey from Doubt to Ecstasy
Bastille's rendition of 'Locked Out of Heaven' delves into the transformative power of love and intimacy. The song begins with the narrator expressing a deep-seated skepticism towards love and miracles, indicating a history of emotional guardedness. This sets the stage for a profound shift as the narrator encounters a love so powerful that it feels almost spiritual. The metaphor of being 'born again' every time they spend the night together suggests a renewal and a sense of salvation found in this intimate connection.
The chorus, with its repeated assertion that 'your sex takes me to paradise,' underscores the euphoric and almost otherworldly experience of this love. The use of religious imagery, such as 'testify' and 'sinner change his ways,' further elevates the relationship to a divine level. The narrator feels as though they have been 'locked out of heaven' for too long, implying that this love has opened up a new realm of emotional and spiritual fulfillment that was previously inaccessible.
The song also touches on themes of vulnerability and surrender. The lines 'You bring me to my knees' and 'Open up your gates' suggest a willingness to be vulnerable and to fully embrace the transformative power of love. The repeated phrase 'Shine bright like a diamond' adds a layer of brilliance and purity to the relationship, emphasizing its unique and precious nature. Through this love, the narrator experiences a profound sense of liberation and joy, making them feel as though they have finally found their way to paradise after a long period of emotional exile.