Bless My Soul
Divinyls
The Fiery Spirit of Rock 'n Roll in 'Bless My Soul'
Divinyls' song 'Bless My Soul' is a powerful anthem that captures the raw, unfiltered essence of rock 'n roll. The lyrics convey a sense of rebellion and a yearning for freedom, both personal and artistic. The opening lines, 'Hand me a prayer book I need to be forgiven / I'm not even driving I'm just being driven,' suggest a struggle with inner demons and a desire for redemption. This sets the stage for a narrative that explores the tension between sin and salvation, temptation and restraint, and the quest for authenticity in a world full of pretense.
The chorus, 'Oh bless my soul it's rock and roll / There's no easy way down / It takes some time to be a hero,' underscores the idea that rock 'n roll is not just a genre of music but a way of life. It speaks to the challenges and sacrifices that come with pursuing one's passion and staying true to oneself. The repeated invocation to 'bless my soul' serves as a plea for understanding and acceptance, both from others and from oneself. The song suggests that the path to becoming a 'hero'—someone who lives authentically and fearlessly—is fraught with difficulties but ultimately rewarding.
The imagery of 'lightning strike' and 'thunder roll' further amplifies the song's intensity, symbolizing the electrifying and often tumultuous nature of rock 'n roll. The line 'If you got an emotion you got to set it free' is a call to action, urging listeners to embrace their true selves and express their emotions without fear. This message resonates deeply in the context of rock 'n roll, a genre known for its emotional honesty and rebellious spirit. In 'Bless My Soul,' Divinyls encapsulate the essence of rock 'n roll as a force that liberates the soul and ignites the spirit.