After The Scripture

Manchester Orchestra's song "After The Scripture" delves into themes of pain, faith, and the human struggle to find solace amidst suffering. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of individuals grappling with their inner turmoil, seeking comfort through prayer and ritual. The opening lines, "After the scripture, we started to pray, holdin' our hands up, waitin' for change," suggest a collective yearning for transformation and relief. This communal act of prayer signifies a shared hope, even among those who barely know each other, highlighting the universal nature of human suffering and the desire for redemption.

The song also explores the complexities of familial relationships and the ways in which people cope with pain. The mention of a mother "rattlin' her brain, makin' an offering, pacing the pain" illustrates the desperate attempts to find meaning and solace. The act of taking a picture and placing it in a frame symbolizes a desire to preserve moments of connection and warmth, even as they build a fire to ward off the cold. This imagery underscores the tension between holding onto memories and the need to protect oneself from further hurt.

As the song progresses, it becomes clear that the pain experienced by the characters is persistent and unyielding. The lines "This pain can't crumble, won't soon retire" emphasize the enduring nature of their suffering. The metaphor of a "bee sting" and a "sword in my side" conveys the sharp, lingering pain that haunts the narrator. Despite this, there is a glimmer of hope in the imagery of a "candle that burned me, deliver me light," suggesting that even in the midst of suffering, there is a search for illumination and understanding. The song ultimately captures the complex interplay between pain, faith, and the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity.