Jack The Ripper

The Misfits' song 'Jack The Ripper' delves into the chilling psyche of one of history's most infamous serial killers. The lyrics are a first-person narrative that captures the sinister thoughts and actions of Jack the Ripper, a figure who terrorized London in the late 19th century. The song opens with a sense of impending doom, as the narrator sees the fear in his victim's eyes and tastes the blood, signaling the violent acts to come. This sets a dark and foreboding tone, immersing the listener in the macabre world of the Ripper.

The lyrics are filled with vivid and gruesome imagery, such as 'a million grains of sand' representing the countless lives taken by the Ripper. The repeated lines 'Where you gonna go? Whatcha gonna do?' emphasize the inescapability of the killer's grasp, creating a sense of hopelessness and terror. The knife in the narrator's hand and the blood running under the midnight sun further illustrate the brutality and relentlessness of the Ripper's actions. The song's structure, with its repetitive and haunting chorus, mirrors the relentless nature of the killer's pursuit.

As the song progresses, the narrator's lack of remorse becomes evident. Phrases like 'Your life has run its course' and 'It's hell burnin' fire' highlight the cold and detached nature of the Ripper. The final lines, 'Now you're mine,' repeated multiple times, signify the ultimate possession and control the killer has over his victim. The Misfits, known for their horror punk style, use this song to explore themes of fear, death, and the dark side of human nature, creating a chilling and unforgettable experience for the listener.