Meaning of "Furnaces" by Ed Harcourt

The song "Furnaces" delves into the idea of insatiable desire and the consequences of unchecked consumption. The repeated references to furnaces and their constant need for more coal symbolize the never-ending hunger of our desires. The mention of shoveling coal into the mouth of a child implies the act of passing on this insatiable nature to future generations. It reflects the cycle of consumerism and how it perpetuates itself. The second verse touches on the idea of illusions and the facade of love, comparing it to "junkyard love on the scrapheap of lust." The image of fracking for shale gas symbolizes the destructive and extractive nature of our desires, which never seem to be satisfied. The references to a bulletproof car and cigars evoke images of wealth and excess, suggesting how materialistic desires can lead to a disconnect from reality. The repetition of the lines "Keep the furnace burning less we turn into rust" emphasizes the need to constantly fuel our desires to avoid stagnation or decay. Overall, the song serves as a commentary on the dangers of unchecked consumption, addiction, and the potential consequences of our insatiable desires.