The song "Defenders of the Grave" by Exhumed delves into the theme of grave robbing and the exploitation of the deceased for personal gain. The lyrics describe a scenario where individuals are driven by greed to disturb the peace and eternal rest of the dead. The opening lines set a haunting atmosphere, as the narrator stalks through a cemetery, searching for opportunities to profit from "notes and coin" by trading "flesh and bone." This implies that they are scavenging the gravesites for valuables. The second stanza introduces the concept of the mortsafe, a device used historically to protect graves from being disturbed. However, even these measures are not enough to prevent the theft and desecration of the remains. The line "calm repose beneath the turf" emphasizes the contrast between the intended tranquility and the violation of the dead. The lyrics continue to condemn the actions of those who exploit the deceased, portraying them as villains who care more about profit than honoring the memory of the dead. The phrase "to butcher, not to eulogize" suggests that the corpses are being disrespected and desecrated rather than being treated with the reverence they deserve. The song also raises the question of who is responsible for protecting the graves. The line "Who turns the key to the mortsafe, when the sexton stuffs his purse?" implies that even the caretakers of the cemetery may be involved in these illicit activities. The reference to nightwatchmen failing to ensure peaceful rest strengthens the idea that no one is safeguarding the graves from violation. The recurring chorus "Stone walls do not a prison make, nor six feet of sod a grave" counters the belief that physical barriers alone can protect the dead. It suggests that true respect for the deceased comes from moral and ethical considerations rather than mere physical obstacles. The phrase "pray the lord your soul to take, you'll need defenders of the grave" implies that the deceased need protectors to ensure eternal peace. These defenders are the ones who uphold the values of respect and dignity for the dead, highlighting the importance of preserving the sanctity of graves. Overall, "Defenders of the Grave" is a critique of the callousness and greed that lead individuals to violate the final resting places of the deceased. It questions the integrity of those involved in grave-robbing while emphasizing the need for guardianship of the dead to maintain their dignity and peace.
