Eternal Night

The Ferrymen's song 'Eternal Night' delves into the depths of existential dread and the struggle to escape a seemingly endless nightmare. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone trapped in a state of perpetual darkness, both literally and metaphorically. The protagonist is caught in a liminal space, unsure if they are alive or dead, awake or dreaming. This uncertainty is encapsulated in the lines 'I am listening to my heartbeat / To see if I'm still alive / I'm afraid to open my eyes.' The fear of facing a reality that might be as bleak as the dream itself is palpable.

The recurring plea for salvation, 'Will you save me - from the starless sky / Where all light will die / Eternal night,' underscores a desperate need for rescue from this oppressive state. The 'starless sky' symbolizes a world devoid of hope and light, a place where the protagonist feels utterly lost. The request to be taken 'to the other side' suggests a longing for a different reality, one that is free from the torment of the 'eternal night.' This could be interpreted as a desire for death, a new beginning, or simply an escape from the current mental anguish.

The song also touches on themes of isolation and invisibility. Despite being surrounded by the sounds of life, the protagonist feels completely disconnected, as highlighted by the lines 'I can hear the city wake up / Hear the life through my walls / But they can't find me / In my nightmare.' This sense of being trapped in one's own mind, unable to communicate or be reached by others, adds another layer of despair. The knocking at the door and the approaching footsteps symbolize the encroaching pressures and fears that the protagonist cannot escape from, further intensifying the feeling of entrapment.

'Eternal Night' is a haunting exploration of the human psyche, capturing the essence of fear, isolation, and the desperate hope for liberation. The Ferrymen's powerful lyrics and evocative imagery make this song a poignant reflection on the darker aspects of the human experience.