Indigo Eyes

Peter Murphy's song 'Indigo Eyes' is a haunting exploration of inner turmoil, spiritual searching, and the quest for enlightenment. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man grappling with confusion and desire, symbolized by the recurring image of 'indigo eyes.' These eyes, described as soft and grey, seem to represent a deep, introspective gaze into the soul, filled with longing and a search for meaning.

The song opens with a powerful image of 'fire burning in a hill,' setting a tone of destruction and renewal. The 'red angels' waiting to pick remains suggest a sense of judgment or reckoning, while the 'cindered shoulder of confused men' indicates the aftermath of a spiritual or existential crisis. The protagonist's 'grey desire' and 'mad' gaze reflect his intense inner conflict and yearning for clarity.

Murphy's reference to Orpheus, the mythological figure who descended into the underworld, adds a layer of classical allusion to the song. Orpheus's plea to be 'bathed in light' and 'exemplified' mirrors the protagonist's own desire for enlightenment and redemption. The 'black tree' blocking his way symbolizes obstacles and the darkness that hinders his spiritual journey. The repeated imagery of 'indigo eyes' underscores the theme of introspection and the struggle to find one's path amidst confusion and despair.

The lyrics also touch on themes of trust and betrayal, as the protagonist reflects on his past and the 'blind infected hands' that dug for trust. The transformation from 'fog to fog' suggests a cyclical nature of confusion and clarity, where moments of insight are fleeting and often followed by further uncertainty. Ultimately, the song portrays a journey that is not evil but estranged, highlighting the alienation and isolation that often accompany deep personal and spiritual quests.