Meaning of Possession by The Sisters of Mercy

The Dark Allure of Possession: Unpacking the Themes of Control and Manipulation in The Sisters of Mercy’s Iconic Song

As I reflect on the hauntingly beautiful song "Possession" by The Sisters of Mercy, I am struck by the profound themes of control, manipulation, and desire that permeate its lyrics. Released in 1987, this song has become a staple of the gothic rock genre, captivating listeners with its brooding atmosphere and thought-provoking lyrics. As I delve into the meaning behind this song, I am reminded of my own experiences with toxic relationships, where the lines between love and possession became blurred.

The Seductive Lure of Control

The song’s opening verse sets the tone for the exploration of control and manipulation that follows. The lyrics "Carrion child, prey for me, play your wild card" suggest a narrator who sees themselves as a predator, preying on someone they consider vulnerable or easily manipulated. This theme of control is reinforced by the repeated phrase "Taking over" in the chorus, implying a desire to dominate and possess the other person completely. The narrator’s aim is to gain complete control, leaving the other person with nothing.

The Blurring of Boundaries

As the song progresses, the lyrics reveal a narrator who seeks to shape and control the other person’s identity. The line "Stand these pictures on your shelf and wear your heart upon my sleeve" suggests a desire to mold the other person’s sense of self, making them vulnerable to emotional manipulation. The repeated phrase "I’ll be your imagination" implies a desire to infiltrate the other person’s thoughts and desires, molding their perception of reality. This blurring of boundaries is a hallmark of toxic relationships, where one person seeks to erase the other’s autonomy and identity.

The Destructive Nature of Possession

The second verse delves deeper into the destructive nature of possession, where the narrator seeks to deconstruct the other person’s beliefs and manipulate their sense of self. The lines "Tear apart what you believe, make a mess of your conviction" suggest a desire to strip away the other person’s pride and leave them with nothing but "debris". This manipulation and control are described as a possession that takes over the other person’s life, leaving them feeling lost and powerless.

The Dance of Deception

The final verse of the song reveals a narrator who is willing to deceive and pretend in order to maintain their hold on the other person. The repeated line "This way I do my lying, making up and making out for you" suggests a willingness to manipulate and control the other person’s emotions, blurring the lines between fact and fiction. This dance of deception is a hallmark of toxic relationships, where one person seeks to maintain control by hiding their true intentions.

A Personal Reflection

As I reflect on my own experiences with toxic relationships, I am struck by the ways in which the themes of control, manipulation, and desire in "Possession" resonate with my own story. I remember feeling trapped and powerless, unable to escape the grip of someone who sought to possess and control me. The song’s lyrics capture the intense emotional turmoil that can result from such relationships, where one person seeks to erase the other’s autonomy and identity.

Conclusion

"Possession" by The Sisters of Mercy is a hauntingly beautiful song that explores the darker aspects of human relationships. Through its lyrics, the song reveals a narrator who seeks to control and manipulate the other person, blurring the lines between love and possession. As we reflect on the themes of control, manipulation, and desire in this song, we are reminded of the importance of maintaining healthy boundaries and respecting the autonomy of others.

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