Meaning of Something Wicked (this Way Comes) by Siouxsie and the Banshees

In the hauntingly captivating song "Something Wicked (this Way Comes)" by Siouxsie and the Banshees, the band delves into a mysterious world filled with eerie encounters and ominous warnings. The overall theme of the song revolves around a sense of impending darkness and the arrival of something wicked. While the lyrics paint a vivid picture of haunting events, they also offer multiple standout lines that contribute to the development of unexpected themes, adding richness and depth to the song's narrative.One of the standout lyrics in the song is, "My bones do ache and my ears, they do ring." This line evokes a physical manifestation of the impending evil, suggesting that the arrival of something wicked brings with it a tangible sensory experience. This theme expands on the idea that evil can have a physical presence and impact, affecting our bodies and senses in profound ways. It hints at the notion that evil can permeate our very being, leaving us feeling vulnerable and on edge.Another notable lyric in the song is, "I hear and smell and I want to scream, the whispering and a scratching to be let in." This line embodies a sense of invasion and intrusion, as if an unseen force is trying to infiltrate the speaker's world. It suggests that evil can be insidious, creeping into our lives and disturbing our inner peace. This theme explores the idea that wickedness can gradually infiltrate our consciousness, making us question our sanity and challenging our ability to discern what is real and what is not.By the pricking of my thumbs, something wicked this way comes. This line, borrowed from Shakespeare's Macbeth, reinforces the central theme of impending darkness. It captures a sense of foreboding and anticipation, as if the lyrics are warning us of an imminent encounter with malevolence. The use of this literary allusion adds depth to the song's narrative, linking it to the timeless theme of the battle between good and evil.The line, "There's something evil on the wing, something wicked is fast approaching, rushing through a hidden wind," explores the idea of evil taking flight. It suggests that wickedness can transcend physical boundaries and manifest itself in unexpected ways. This theme delves into the notion that evil can be elusive, elusive, and elusive, requiring our constant vigilance to prevent it from engulfing our lives. It reminds us that evil is not static but can move with unforeseen speed and stealth, catching us off guard if we are not careful.As the song progresses, it further delves into the consequences of encountering wickedness. The line, "Nothing good is what's in store, it's nothing new and it's rotten to the core," underlines the belief that wickedness corrupts and taints everything it touches. This theme explores the notion that evil is pervasive and all-encompassing, capable of spreading its darkness into every aspect of our lives. It serves as a cautionary reminder of the destructive power of evil and encourages us to remain vigilant and not succumb to its influence.In the later lyrics, the band sings, "We're dragged helpless in the undertow, the quicksand surround and swallow us whole." This imagery highlights the overwhelming and suffocating nature of wickedness. It suggests that once we are entangled in the grasp of evil, it becomes increasingly difficult to escape its clutches. This theme prompts us to consider the consequences of succumbing to darkness, emphasizing the importance of resisting its allure and remaining steadfast in the face of adversity.In conclusion, Siouxsie and the Banshees' song "Something Wicked (this Way Comes)" explores the multifaceted nature of evil and its impending arrival. Through its standout lyrics, the song develops unexpected and imaginative themes that contribute to the overall narrative. These themes encompass the physical manifestation of evil, the subtle invasion of our lives, the anticipation and urgency in its approach, the all-consuming nature of wickedness, and the consequences of falling under its influence. By weaving these themes together, the song cautions us to stay vigilant, recognize the signs of darkness, and strive to overcome its malevolent grip.