As Heaven is Wide

Garbage's song 'As Heaven is Wide' delves deep into the themes of betrayal, anger, and the profound sense of loss that follows a broken trust. The lyrics are a raw and unfiltered expression of the emotional turmoil experienced by someone who has been deeply wronged. The opening lines set the tone, emphasizing that no words or prayers can undo the damage caused. The repetition of 'nothing' underscores the futility of seeking redemption or forgiveness from the perspective of the betrayed.

The chorus is particularly striking, with vivid imagery that conveys the intensity of the narrator's pain. The idea of flesh crawling and skin falling off bones symbolizes a desire to escape the overwhelming anguish. The comparison of the distance from God to the width of heaven and the flight of angels highlights the vast chasm between the narrator's current state and any sense of divine comfort or justice. The line 'If holy is as holy does, this house will burn straight down to hell' suggests that the betrayal has tainted everything, even the sanctity of their home, leading to a complete moral and emotional collapse.

The song's bridge and final verses continue to explore the depth of the narrator's despair and anger. The repeated 'I wish' signifies a longing for things to be different, but also a recognition of the irreversible nature of the betrayal. The challenge to 'take it back' and the rhetorical question 'What's inside a man that goes so wrong?' reflect a struggle to understand the motivations behind the betrayal. The imagery of choking on guilt and being buried in the same place of abandonment further emphasizes the desire for retribution and justice. Ultimately, the song captures the profound impact of betrayal and the longing for escape and resolution, encapsulated in the final wish to 'fly as angels can fly.'