Facing the Animal

Yngwie Malmsteen's song 'Facing the Animal' delves into the raw, primal instincts that lie beneath the surface of human behavior. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a struggle between control and surrender, where the protagonist is both captivated and overwhelmed by a powerful, almost animalistic desire. The opening lines, 'Sinking my teeth into you, Sweet obscenity,' suggest a deep, almost predatory attraction that is both alluring and dangerous. This sets the stage for a narrative where the protagonist is caught in a web of intense emotions and physical sensations.

The recurring phrase 'Facing the animal' serves as a metaphor for confronting one's inner beast—the untamed, instinctual part of the self that defies societal norms and rational thought. The lyrics 'Lost in a ritual, I close your eyes and kiss you twice' evoke a sense of surrender to this primal force, as if the act itself is a ceremonial acknowledgment of the animal within. The use of the word 'ritual' implies a repetitive, almost sacred act, highlighting the inevitability and power of these primal urges.

Malmsteen's musical style, characterized by virtuosic guitar solos and a blend of classical and metal influences, amplifies the intensity of the song's theme. The line 'The scent of your skin overpowers me, there is no remedy' underscores the idea that these primal urges are inescapable and deeply rooted in our very being. The song ultimately portrays a battle between the civilized self and the untamed animal within, a theme that resonates with the universal human experience of grappling with our darker, more instinctual sides.