Charles Francis Coghlan

Carach Angren's song "Charles Francis Coghlan" tells the haunting and surreal tale of the titular actor's posthumous journey. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a stormy night where a cemetery is transformed into a scene of chaos and melancholy. The song begins with a description of a deadly hurricane that ravages the land, sweeping caskets into the sea, setting the stage for the eerie narrative that follows.

Charles Francis Coghlan, born in Paris in 1842, was a talented and charismatic actor who moved from Ireland to the United States. His life and career are depicted as remarkable, with his performances captivating audiences. However, his life takes a tragic turn when he collapses and dies on stage, a dramatic end befitting his theatrical life. The song then shifts focus to his coffin, which is carried away by the storm's waves, drifting through the ocean's cold and dark waters.

The lyrics describe the coffin's relentless journey, battered by waves and corroded by salt, yet it continues to float. This journey symbolizes Coghlan's enduring legacy and the idea that true artists continue to perform even in death. The coffin's eventual discovery on Canadian shores, seven years after the storm, adds a mystical element to the story, suggesting that Coghlan's spirit remains restless and ever-present. The song concludes with a reflection on the nature of artistry, emphasizing that artists are dedicated to their craft until their last breath, and even beyond, in the timeless theatres of death.