Sacred Heart

Cass McCombs' song 'Sacred Heart' is a poignant exploration of reverence, gratitude, and the inevitable sorrow that accompanies loss. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a 'Sacred Heart' viewed from a summit, symbolizing a distant, almost unattainable ideal or entity. This heart, echoing up the mountainside, represents something or someone deeply revered, yet perpetually out of reach. The mention of a 'vulcan kiss upon the forehead' suggests a powerful, almost divine touch that leaves a lasting impression, yet is fleeting and elusive.

The song also pays homage to 'noble scholars' and members of a covenant, indicating a deep sense of gratitude towards those who have provided wisdom and guidance. McCombs acknowledges that without their support, he would have 'drowned in gutterwater,' a metaphor for being lost or overwhelmed by life's challenges. This gratitude is directed towards the 'Most Sacred Heart,' a figure or concept that holds immense significance for the narrator. However, despite this reverence and gratitude, there is an underlying sense of frustration and sorrow, as indicated by the repeated exclamations of 'Alas!'

The lyrics take a somber turn with the mention of the 'Dearly Departed,' suggesting a gathering in reverence for those who have passed away. This acknowledgment of mortality is coupled with the realization that 'we all will return to the soil,' emphasizing the transient nature of life. The song's melancholic tone is further underscored by the imagery of 'Cinderella’s in the doghouse,' a metaphor for disappointment and unfulfilled expectations. The final line, 'No, love doesn’t always boomerang,' encapsulates the song's theme of unreciprocated love and the harsh reality that not all emotions or efforts are returned.