Meaning of "The Haunted" by Memphis May Fire

The lyrics of "The Haunted" delve into the dark and painful realities of a toxic relationship. The narrator begins by describing the initial allure of love, with the persona feeling victimized and trapped by a love that was never divine. They acknowledge that this toxic love was their first experience, and they hated every moment. The person they were involved with always led them to places of downfall, knowing that they would fall. This highlights the manipulative nature of the relationship, where the narrator feels like a puppet at the mercy of their partner's intentions.

As the lyrics progress, the narrator recognizes their own role in the situation, blaming themselves for not putting a stop to the abuse. They express a profound sense of loss and a desire to forget the haunting memories of that night. The repetition of the line "Hello and goodbye" suggests a cycle of hope and disappointment, illustrating the ongoing struggle to break free from the emotional grip that the abuser holds.

The narrator also calls out the abuser, describing them as evil and poisonous. They acknowledge the ability to see through the abuser's false façade, realizing too late the true intentions hiding behind their eyes. The use of the phrase "Perfectly covered in blood" suggests that the abuser was skilled at concealing their true nature and leaving the narrator vulnerable and wounded.

In the final verses, the narrator finds empowerment and resilience, declaring that the abuser didn't leave a lasting mark. They assert their determination to wake up from the nightmare and find happiness while leaving the abuser alone and isolated. The lyrics ultimately convey a message of strength and hope, highlighting the importance of breaking free from toxic relationships and finding healing and liberation.