Family Tree

Ethel Cain's 'Family Tree' is a haunting exploration of themes like redemption, violence, and the struggle for identity. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a protagonist marked by past sins and seeking purification. The crosses on her body symbolize the weight of her past actions and the identity she once held. The act of giving herself up in offering suggests a desire for transformation and redemption, a common theme in religious contexts. The mention of violence and the teachings from her parents add layers of complexity, hinting at a turbulent upbringing that has shaped her into someone capable of both love and violence.

The recurring imagery of being taken down to the river to be bathed clean is a powerful metaphor for baptism and spiritual cleansing. This act signifies a yearning to wash away past sins and start anew. The white horse and the chapel further emphasize the religious undertones, symbolizing purity and a journey towards salvation. However, the protagonist's admission of having killed before and being unafraid to kill again introduces a stark contrast, highlighting the internal conflict between her violent tendencies and her desire for redemption.

The song also delves into the idea of divine forgiveness and the struggle to reconcile one's past with the hope for a better future. The protagonist's plea for Christ to forgive the bones she's been hiding and the ones she's about to leave underscores the weight of her guilt and the cyclical nature of her actions. The final repetition of the chorus reinforces the longing for purification and the hope that she can be washed clean of her sins, even as she acknowledges the darkness within her. 'Family Tree' is a poignant reflection on the complexities of human nature, the quest for redemption, and the enduring impact of one's past.