"Leather Crown" by Gallows is a song with dark and intense imagery, exploring themes of regret, sexuality, and personal struggle. The lyrics evoke a sense of despair and a search for meaning in a life that has been lived recklessly. The song starts with a reference to prayer wheels and pagan blood, creating a mystical and ominous atmosphere. The line "Haunted by visions of crawling death the invisible worm" suggests haunting images and feelings of decay. The protagonist and the listener are invited to look beyond the surface, behind the green door, to the hidden realities of their lives. The chorus, "Goddamn the day I was born, I've been patient for too long," expresses frustration and a sense of being trapped. The protagonist feels that they have been waiting for something to change for a long time, but nothing has happened. This line conveys a sort of existential crisis and a desire for release from their current situation. The second verse introduces sexual themes and symbols. The pentagram is often associated with occult practices and desires, suggesting a forbidden or dangerous encounter. The experience is described as unforgettable and frightening, possibly indicating the power and impact it had on the protagonist. The mention of a symbol of well-being drawn on her skin suggests a dichotomy between pleasure and consequences. As the song progresses, the protagonist reflects on their experiences and choices. The widening circles of desire seeking out new flesh may refer to a pattern of seeking temporary pleasure but ultimately being unsatisfied. The line "Cut off from her nirvana a vision of regret" suggests that the pleasure and satisfaction the protagonist seeks is unattainable or unsatisfying. They find themselves sinking further into their urges and feeling trapped, with no one left to trust. Overall, "Leather Crown" portrays a tortured individual who is facing the consequences of their actions, wrestling with regret and longing for something more. It captures a sense of dissatisfaction, lost opportunities, and a yearning for liberation or redemption. The dark and vivid imagery, coupled with the intense and emotional delivery of the song, adds to the powerful and haunting nature of its message.
