Angel Of Small Death & The Codeine Scene

Hozier's 'Angel Of Small Death & The Codeine Scene' is a poetic exploration of the intoxicating and often destructive nature of desire and addiction. The song's title itself is a metaphor, with 'small death' being a translation of 'la petite mort,' a French term that refers to the brief loss or weakening of consciousness and 'codeine scene' suggesting a numbing or escapist drug use. The lyrics paint a picture of someone who is captivated by a person or substance that provides a temporary escape, symbolized by the 'angel,' who is both sweet and mean, representing the dual nature of addiction that can seem heavenly at first but ultimately leads to pain and suffering.

The song's narrative describes a journey from isolation to a sense of belonging, albeit in a sordid and potentially harmful environment. The protagonist is drawn to the 'angel,' surrendering willingly to the allure despite the inherent risks. This surrender is depicted as a form of death, not in a literal sense, but as a loss of the former self, as the protagonist becomes 'more human and hooked on her flesh.' The imagery of being 'fresh from the fields, all fetor and fertile' suggests a raw and vulnerable state, ripe for the transformative and possibly corrupting influence of the 'angel.'

The final verses of the song reflect a moment of self-awareness and survival. The protagonist wanders, perhaps aimlessly, contemplating the aftermath of their experiences. There's a sense of having endured something significant, with the 'sweet heat of her breath' symbolizing the lingering presence and impact of the 'angel.' The song leaves listeners with a sense of ambiguity, questioning whether the protagonist is better for having survived or if they remain ensnared by the 'angel's' influence.