Babalon A.D. (So Glad For The Madness)

Cradle of Filth's 'Babalon A.D. (So Glad For The Madness)' is a dark and intricate exploration of themes such as religious blasphemy, historical atrocities, and the seductive allure of chaos. The song's lyrics are rich with vivid imagery and references to biblical and historical figures, creating a tapestry of madness and rebellion against conventional morality.

The song opens with the protagonist likening himself to a 'clockwork Christ,' bearing the stigmata and suffering in a manner that mocks religious martyrdom. This sets the tone for the rest of the song, where the protagonist revels in his role as an agent of chaos and destruction. The mention of Job, a biblical figure known for his suffering, further emphasizes the theme of enduring pain and seeking divine attention, albeit in a twisted manner.

As the song progresses, the protagonist's journey takes him through various historical and mythical settings, from Sodom and Babylon to the Vatican and the Bastille. These references serve to highlight the pervasive nature of corruption and decadence throughout history. The protagonist's actions, such as choking a Pope and leading a 'sordid Borgia,' underscore his disdain for religious and moral authority. The imagery of guillotines and fallen dancers evokes the French Revolution, symbolizing the overthrow of the old order and the embrace of anarchy.

The song's climax introduces a mysterious nymph with 'eyes of fire,' representing an unattainable ideal or a forbidden desire. This figure embodies the ultimate temptation, drawing the protagonist away from damnation and towards a state of ecstatic madness. The nymph's kiss, devoid of shame and transcending the dichotomy of virtue and sin, signifies a liberation from conventional morality and an embrace of the chaotic and the unknown. The protagonist's 'permanent grin' at the end of the song suggests a sense of fulfillment and acceptance of his own madness.