The song "Cult of Mary" by the band Gallows explores themes of violence, destruction, and devotion. It begins by welcoming the listener to a world filled with violence, where youth is under attack. The lyrics suggest that what doesn't destroy can also create, referring to the thriving gangs and the intoxicating smell of female presence. The repetition of "faster, faster, kill! Kill!" emphasizes the chaotic and destructive nature of this world. The chorus highlights the idea of living in a state of decay and embracing a life that resembles death. The protagonist expresses their complete and perverse devotion to someone, finding solace or a sense of paradise in worn-out beds. This suggests an unhealthy obsession or attraction to someone who may be dangerous or destructive. The next verse describes the protagonist as part of a long line of mystics who see the world through a prism of imprisonment. The "fireworks of despair" symbolize the constant turmoil surrounding them. They mention a "daughter of the sun" who represents a sense of hope or enlightenment, but even she is trapped in a world where people are enslaved to each other's will. The chorus is repeated, emphasizing the sense of living a life devoid of vitality and being consumed by a perverse devotion. The final verse introduces religious imagery, referencing the "Cult of Mary" and the crucified Christ. It suggests a blending of pagan rituals and religious extremism, perhaps critiquing the dark side of organized religion. The phrase "Pagan blood for the religious reich" implies a corrupt and oppressive religious regime. The song concludes with the repeated phrase "She shed. Shed her skin in waves of nothingness." This could symbolize a shedding of emotional baggage or a desire for liberation from the destructive cycle depicted throughout the song. Overall, "Cult of Mary" explores themes of violence, devotion, and the impact of destructive environments on individuals. It offers a bleak portrayal of a world where violence and obsession reign, and questions the societal and religious structures that perpetuate such darkness.
