Backbone Practise

Sopor Aeternus, known for their dark and gothic musical style, delves deep into themes of fear, responsibility, and trust in the song 'Backbone Practise.' The lyrics paint a vivid and surreal picture, beginning in a morgue where student nurses are preparing for an operation. The protagonist, overwhelmed by the noise and chaos, feigns a fainting fit, symbolizing a desire to escape the pressures and responsibilities of the situation.

The imagery of a 'tiny spineless spider' that is actually a dog needing a new backbone serves as a powerful metaphor for vulnerability and the need for support. The spider, fragile and injured, represents the protagonist's own feelings of inadequacy and fear. The operation on the spider, carried out by the nurses under the guidance of a teacher, highlights the process of learning and mastering one's fears and responsibilities. This scene underscores the idea that growth and mastery come through facing challenges head-on, despite the stress and fear involved.

The song takes a philosophical turn with the introduction of the elephant on the cathedral roof. This surreal image symbolizes the precariousness of trust and the importance of faith in oneself and others. The protagonist is urged to 'climb down his tail' and trust that the elephant will hold steady, despite the inherent risks. This metaphor speaks to the broader theme of overcoming fear and the necessity of trust in navigating life's uncertainties. The concluding advice from a man who has 'passed the elephant-test' reinforces the message that many fears are rooted in a primal fear of death and must be confronted to achieve personal growth and resilience.