The song "Show Me Heaven" by Jimmy Nail tells the story of a soldier who experiences the harsh realities of war and struggles with the morality of killing. The lyrics depict the morning aftermath of a battle, where the birds refuse to sing and the wind carries reminders of the devastation. The protagonist witnesses the bodies of fallen soldiers and feels compelled to collect souvenirs as a reminder of the horrors he has witnessed. Amidst this bleak scene, the soldier finds solace in the presence of a loved one. They ask their partner to lay their head down on their pillow, symbolizing a desire for comfort and escape from the terrors of war. They long to experience a glimpse of heaven through their love and physical intimacy. However, the perspective of the soldier shifts when they admit to killing a little boy and receiving praise for it. This event forces them to question the righteousness of their actions. They realize that every victim of war has loved ones who suffer, and they feel the need to be strong for the young man's grieving mother. Despite their internal conflict, the soldier still seeks solace in their loved one's affection. They ask their partner to lift their skirt up, metaphorically representing a desire for intimacy and closeness. Through this act, they hope to find a momentary respite from the horrors they have witnessed. The song concludes with the soldier accepting their fate. They acknowledge that they will be waiting for another battle and that they will make peace with their faith before walking towards the sun, a metaphor for death. They anticipate reuniting with their fallen comrades and even their enemies, suggesting a longing for closure and understanding. In the final lines, the soldier asks their partner to put their sweet lips against their body. This intimate plea symbolizes a longing for the transcendental experience of heaven, potentially through love and connection beyond the confines of war. Overall, "Show Me Heaven" explores the conflicting emotions and moral dilemmas experienced by a soldier in the midst of war. Jimmy Nail uses vivid imagery to depict the devastation and seeks solace through love and intimacy, while also acknowledging the harsh realities and consequences of violence.
