The Family Ghost

King Diamond's 'The Family Ghost' is a chilling narrative that delves into the supernatural and the macabre. The song tells the story of Jonathan and Miriam, who are haunted by the ghost of Count de la Fey. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a cold, eerie night where Jonathan encounters the ghost, who reveals dark secrets about the past and a dire warning for the future. The ghost's presence is marked by a blinding light and an ice-cold bedroom, setting the stage for a tale of horror and suspense.

The ghost, Count de la Fey, guides Jonathan to a crypt where the body of Abigail, a stillborn child, rests. This revelation is not just about the physical remains but also about the spirit of Abigail, which the ghost claims resides within Miriam. The ghost's message is clear and terrifying: to prevent the rebirth of evil, Jonathan must take Miriam's life. This narrative twist adds a layer of moral complexity and urgency, as Jonathan is faced with an impossible choice between love and duty.

King Diamond, known for his theatrical and horror-themed metal music, uses 'The Family Ghost' to explore themes of death, the supernatural, and the struggle between good and evil. The song's lyrics are rich with gothic imagery and metaphors, such as the 'slippery stairs' symbolizing the treacherous path Jonathan must navigate. The torch and the vault represent the search for truth and the uncovering of hidden secrets. Through this haunting tale, King Diamond invites listeners into a world where the past and present collide, and where the line between reality and the supernatural is blurred.