Meaning of "Buried Above Ground" by Giles Corey

The lyrics in "Buried Above Ground" explore themes of internal conflict, oppression, and a sense of being trapped. The repeated reference to devils on different body parts suggests that the protagonist is tormented both physically and mentally, perhaps battling personal demons or facing external pressures that consume their entire being. These devils symbolize their suffering and the weight they carry on their shoulders. The line "I've been wailing like a child at the bottom of a well" evokes a sense of isolation and vulnerability, longing for escape but feeling trapped in a deep emotional pit. This imagery emphasizes the protagonist's struggle and their inability to find relief or solace.

The mention of pacing like a man in a prison cell further accentuates the theme of confinement and entrapment. It highlights the protagonist's restlessness and their futile attempts to break free, paralleling the actions of a prisoner who seeks liberation within the confines of their cell. The lyrics suggest that these feelings of imprisonment might stem from society's expectations, personal regrets, or unresolved issues that haunt the protagonist's mind.

The phrase "I get buried above the ground" holds profound significance within the context of the song. It implies a suffocating existence in which the protagonist's pain is not externally visible but weighs them down internally. This line could be interpreted as feeling trapped within oneself, experiencing emotional torment that is invisible to others but overwhelming nonetheless. It speaks to the profound impact of internal struggles and how they can bury an individual even when they are physically present in the outside world.

Overall, "Buried Above Ground" captures the anguish and turmoil of being trapped in one's own emotional prison. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the protagonist's internal struggles with vivid imagery and metaphors, conveying a sense of isolation, despair, and the weight of unseen burdens.