Moonchild
Fields of the Nephilim
The Enigmatic Descent of the Moonchild
Fields of the Nephilim's song "Moonchild" is a haunting and enigmatic piece that delves into themes of existential struggle, spiritual conflict, and the search for meaning. The term 'Moonchild' itself evokes a sense of otherworldliness and mysticism, suggesting a character or entity that is both ethereal and burdened by earthly concerns. The repeated plea to be 'lowered down' can be interpreted as a desire for release or escape from the trials and tribulations of life, a yearning to return to a state of peace or oblivion.
The lyrics juxtapose the idea of righteousness with a sense of being 'out of mind,' indicating a conflict between moral or spiritual aspirations and the harsh realities of existence. The imagery of tending horses and putting them in cages symbolizes the constraints and responsibilities that weigh down the soul. The mention of 'longevity' as something 'righteous for the weak' suggests that enduring life's hardships is seen as a virtue, but also a burden that the speaker wishes to shed.
The song's dark and brooding atmosphere is further amplified by references to a 'promised war' and the inevitability of death. The Moonchild's journey is one of suffering and disillusionment, as evidenced by lines like 'Revisit to an empty hall' and 'I melt down where I burned before.' These phrases convey a sense of cyclical pain and the struggle to find redemption or meaning. The recurring motif of the moon, both white and black, symbolizes the duality of hope and despair, light and darkness, that permeates the human experience. Ultimately, "Moonchild" is a profound exploration of the inner turmoil and existential angst that define the human condition.