If You Have Ghosts (Roky Erickson Cover)
Ghost
Embracing the Spectral: The Meaning Behind Ghost's 'If You Have Ghosts'
The song 'If You Have Ghosts,' originally by Roky Erickson and covered by the band Ghost, delves into the concept of embracing one's inner ghosts or demons. The repeated line 'If you have ghosts, you have everything' suggests that acknowledging and accepting the darker parts of oneself is crucial to being whole. The song implies that these 'ghosts' can be a source of strength and individuality, allowing a person to act freely ('You can say anything you want / And you can do anything you wanna do').
The lyrics 'In the night I am real' and references to the moon and the wind might symbolize the idea that one's true self often emerges in solitude or under the cover of darkness, away from the public eye. The 'ghosts' could also represent secrets or hidden truths that define a person's identity. The mention of not wanting 'fangs too long' could be a metaphor for not wanting to become too consumed by these inner demons or to let them take over one's identity completely.
Ghost, known for their theatrical stage presence and lyrical content that often explores themes of the occult and existentialism, brings a unique interpretation to Erickson's song. Their cover maintains the haunting and introspective nature of the original while infusing it with their signature melodic and eerie style. The song's exploration of self-acceptance and the duality of human nature resonates with listeners who might also grapple with their own inner 'ghosts.'