Darklands

The song "Darklands" by The Jesus And Mary Chain delves into the depths of inner turmoil and existential despair. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a journey to a metaphorical place called the 'darklands,' which represents the singer's chaotic and troubled soul. The darklands are a place where the singer can confront their inner demons and the existential dread that life often brings. The repeated lines about life meaning nothing and all things ending in nothing highlight a nihilistic perspective, suggesting a struggle with finding meaning and purpose.

The chorus, with its repetitive 'I want to move, I want to go,' reflects a deep yearning for change or escape. This desire to move away from the current state of mind is palpable, yet there's a sense of being trapped, as indicated by the lines 'Oh something won't let me go to the place where the darklands are.' This could symbolize the internal conflict between wanting to face one's fears and being held back by them. The mention of waking from dreams to a 'scary world of screams' further emphasizes the harsh reality that the singer faces, blurring the lines between dreams and reality.

The plea to be taken to the dark, coupled with the imagery of being down on one's knees by the 'river of disease,' suggests a profound sense of despair and helplessness. The singer feels as though they are dying, both metaphorically and perhaps even literally, as they grapple with their inner darkness. The song's haunting melody and repetitive 'do do do' refrain add to the sense of being stuck in a loop of despair, unable to break free. Ultimately, 'Darklands' is a powerful exploration of the human psyche, capturing the struggle between facing one's inner darkness and the desire to escape it.