Toby

Madame Macabre's song "Toby" delves into the harrowing journey of a character named Toby, who is grappling with intense psychological and emotional turmoil. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a life marred by relentless strife and ostracization, leading to a profound sense of isolation and despair. Toby's struggle is not just external but deeply internal, as he battles with voices and illusions that distort his reality. This internal conflict is symbolized by the recurring imagery of a hatchet, representing both his means of defense and his descent into darkness.

The song's narrative takes a dark turn as Toby succumbs to his rage and anguish, culminating in a violent act of retribution. The lines "So I took the axe and then I buried it deep into his back" and "I set fire to it all and welcomed my downfall" highlight the breaking point where Toby's suppressed emotions explode, leading to irreversible consequences. This act of violence is both a moment of liberation and a catalyst for further descent, as Toby's reality continues to distort, and he becomes increasingly detached from his former self.

The latter part of the song introduces a mysterious figure, "the man without a face," who pulls Toby from the flames and manipulates his memories. This figure can be interpreted as a metaphor for the inescapable nature of Toby's trauma and the way it reshapes his identity. Despite the attempts to erase or alter his past, Toby is left broken and defined only by his name. The repetition of the chorus underscores the cyclical nature of his torment, as he remains trapped in a distorted reality, unable to find solace or escape. "Toby" is a haunting exploration of the impact of relentless suffering and the ways in which it can consume and transform an individual.