Meaning of "The Culling" by Chelsea Wolfe

"The Culling" has a haunting and mysterious quality, with lyricism that blends darkness and vulnerability. The opening lines suggest a sense of distance and separation, as the narrator mentions only reaching out to the person in their dreams. The phrase "Died too young / The culling then, it was obscene" introduces the notion that the person being addressed has died prematurely, perhaps in a tragic or violent manner. This sets the tone for the rest of the lyrics, which explore themes of loss, secrecy, and the longing to reconnect.

The line "I am depleted by love" conveys the idea that love has drained the narrator emotionally or perhaps even physically. It suggests a sense of exhaustion or weariness that comes from investing too much in relationships. This theme is further emphasized by the repeated line, which echoes the narrator's state of being.

The next lines delve into the narrator's reluctance to reveal the secrets of their family. This implies a sense of protectiveness and the unwillingness to expose vulnerabilities or dark aspects of their past. The following line, "A cult of anonymity," adds a layer of intrigue and suggests that the narrator's family may have been involved in something secretive or unconventional, further emphasizing the need for secrecy.

The imagery of a "kettle...wheeling" symbolizes the narrator's emotions and love as something in constant motion and turmoil. It signifies a turbulent and chaotic nature, with the love they are experiencing riding on the back of a hellish situation caused by others. This imagery paints a vivid picture of the emotional state and the difficult circumstances surrounding the relationship.

The latter part of the lyrics describes the narrator's focus and connection to the person with "dead eyes." They are fully attentive, with "one ear to the ground," possibly listening for signs of the person's presence, and "one eye on the room," alert and cautious. The reference to having the "tongue on your pulse" and "finger in your wound" speaks to the intimate and intense nature of their connection. It signifies not just an emotional bond but a deep connection that transcends the physical realm.

The repeated longing for the person with "dead eyes" suggests an obsession or a deep longing for that connection to be reestablished. The phrase "illustrious hiss" hints at the possibility of communication or a particular sound associated with this person, emphasizing the uniqueness of their bond.

The closing lines introduce a sense of uncertainty and inevitability. "No turning back / 'Only god knows what we're headed for'" conveys a fatalistic attitude, suggesting that once certain events have been set in motion, there is no way to change the course of events. The mention of flowers blooming and the sun rising evokes a sense of hope or renewal juxtaposed with the dark themes explored throughout the lyrics.