Heart of Darkness is a song by the Australian rock band Hoodoo Gurus. The lyrics metaphorically explore the darker aspects of life and human nature. The song incorporates themes of transformation, regret, and the overwhelming feeling of being consumed by darkness. The opening lines, "Blood flows just like water, changing into wine," suggest the transformation from innocence to something darker and more complex. This transformation is further emphasized in the line, "Everything looks better in the black sunshine," indicating that sometimes embracing the shadows can be preferable. The lyrics suggest that memories and past experiences, referred to as echoes, have a strong hold on the narrator. Despite this, the narrator refuses to feel sorry for their past actions and emotions, as the tears shed in regret simply turn into sand, signifying the passage of time and the futile nature of dwelling on the past. The chorus, "I don't care now for what might have been, the heart of darkness closes in on me," expresses a sense of resignation and acceptance of the darkness within. The heart of darkness represents the internal struggles and flaws that the narrator feels closing in on them. The repeated phrase "Hey, hey, hey, hey" acts as a musical bridge throughout the song, creating a hypnotic and introspective tone. Overall, "Heart of Darkness" explores the depths of human emotion and the constant battle between light and darkness within oneself. It encourages listeners to confront their inner demons and find acceptance in the complexities of life.
