The song "Herschell Goes to Heaven" by Harley Poe tells the dark and tragic story of a young boy named Herschell. The lyrics describe Herschell's love for playing outdoors in the snow, as he enjoys the freedom and excitement it brings. Herschell believes it is his right to stay outside all night, unaware of the lurking danger that awaits him. Unexpectedly, Herschell encounters a creature in the snow and befriends it, offering his scarf and hat as a sign of friendship. However, as the night progresses, the creature reveals its true nature - carnivorous and wild, with intentions to feast on Herschell. Herschell's friend, who had warned him, only smirks and does nothing to help. Herschell tries to escape, running desperately through the snow, but he has nowhere to go and is terrified. The lyrics emphasize the irony of Herschell thinking he is having fun, oblivious to the imminent danger that awaits him just around the corner. As Herschell continues to flee, he unexpectedly encounters a man dressed in red, who seems dead. Herschell pleads with the man for help, but the creature catches up and brutally attacks the man, leaving Herschell to realize that he will be next. In a twist of fate, the man overpowers the creature, tearing its arm off. But Herschell's relief is short-lived, as the man's true intention is revealed - he wanted Herschell for his own pleasure. The man captures Herschell and drags him away. The song ends with the tragic outcome, as Herschell's remains are found the following day. The repetition of the chorus emphasizes the cruel irony of Herschell's fate - he thought he was enjoying his freedom in the snow, but death was always waiting around the corner for him. Overall, "Herschell Goes to Heaven" tells a dark and cautionary tale about the dangers of trusting strangers and the consequences of naivety. It serves as a reminder that not everything is as it seems and that one should be cautious and aware of their surroundings.
