The Lamia

Genesis' song 'The Lamia' from their 1974 album 'The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway' is a rich tapestry of surreal imagery and mythological references. The protagonist, Rael, finds himself in a mysterious, opulent chamber filled with strange scents and a rose-water pool. The setting is dreamlike, evoking a sense of otherworldly beauty and danger. As Rael steps into the pool, he encounters the Lamia, mythical creatures with the bodies of snakes and the faces of women. The Lamia are both enchanting and terrifying, embodying the duality of allure and peril.

The lyrics delve into themes of temptation and the consequences of succumbing to it. Rael, captivated by the Lamia's beauty, lets go of his fear and immerses himself in the pool. The Lamia's caresses are described in sensuous detail, highlighting the intoxicating nature of their touch. However, this enchantment quickly turns to horror as the Lamia, upon tasting Rael's blood, are convulsed in pain and die. This sudden shift from pleasure to agony underscores the transient and often destructive nature of desire.

The song also explores the idea of transformation and loss. After the Lamia's death, Rael is left in a state of sorrow and confusion. The once vibrant and alluring creatures are now lifeless, their bodies floating like empty boats. The imagery of 'silent sorrow' and 'a dying bloom' poignantly captures the aftermath of indulgence and the inevitable decay that follows. Rael's decision to consume the remaining flesh of the Lamia, despite the lingering scent of garlic, symbolizes a desperate attempt to hold onto the remnants of a fleeting experience. The song ends on a haunting note, with the water turning icy blue and the lights dimming, suggesting a return to the unknown and the cyclical nature of Rael's journey.