Meaning of "Dig Up Her Bones" by Misfits

"Dig Up Her Bones" explores themes of obsession, possession, and the allure of the forbidden. The lyrics convey a sense of infatuation with a woman who is described as being anything, anywhere, and belonging solely to the speaker. This raises questions about the nature of the relationship and the speaker's motivation for pursuing this person. The repetition of the phrase "Anything is what she is" suggests a longing to possess and control her entirely, regardless of her identity or origins.

The metaphor of death climbing the steps one by one to give the speaker a burned rose adds a darker layer to the lyrics. Death is personified as a force that brings forth the consequences of the woman's actions, possibly hinting at the destructive nature of the relationship or the speaker's own self-destructive tendencies. The rose, traditionally a symbol of love and beauty, is transformed into something charred and damaged, highlighting the negative consequences that come with the woman's presence.

The chorus of the song, "Point me to the sky above, I can't get there on my own, walk me to the graveyard, dig up her bones," reflects the speaker's desperation and willingness to follow the woman to extreme lengths. The sky and graveyard symbolize opposing forces, with the sky representing purity, freedom, and transcendence, while the graveyard represents death and decay. The speaker needs guidance to reach the sky, suggesting a longing for salvation or enlightenment, which the woman possesses. However, this desire for transcendence is tied to the woman, as if her presence is a gateway to a higher realm.

Overall, "Dig Up Her Bones" depicts an unhealthy obsession with a mysterious and intoxicating woman. The lyrics explore themes of possession, desire, and the destructive consequences that can arise from pursuing the forbidden. The repetition and vivid imagery create a haunting and intense atmosphere, capturing the dark allure of the speaker's infatuation.