Meaning of "Take Me to Church" by Scott Bradlee's Postmodern Jukebox

"Take Me to Church" is a song that critiques organized religion and explores the idea of worshiping something or someone outside of traditional religious institutions. The lyrics present a lover who is seen as an unconventional figure, someone who is disapproved of by society or religious institutions. Despite this disapproval, the narrator finds solace, joy, and a sense of purpose in this forbidden love. The lines "We were born sick, but I love it" and "Command me to be well" suggest a paradoxical acceptance and enjoyment of one's inherent flaws or sins. The narrator rejects the notion of absolutes and embraces the idea that their lover is the only heaven they will experience. The bedroom is presented as a holy space, where the truest form of worship takes place.

The chorus, "Take me to church, I'll worship like a dog at the shrine of your lies," reflects the intensity and devotion that the narrator feels towards their lover. By using religious imagery and language, the song highlights the power dynamics within the relationship. The lover is seen as god-like, demanding sacrifice and sinning alongside the narrator. The lines "Offer me that deathless death, Good God, let me give you my life" suggest a willingness to sacrifice oneself completely for the sake of this forbidden love and the desire for a transcendental experience.

The bridge of the song introduces a contrast between the idea of masters and kings and the narrator's experience of a "gentle sin." It suggests that true innocence and humanity are found within the realms of forbidden desires and unconventional relationships. The lyrics imply that it is only in these moments that the narrator feels truly alive and cleansed of their sins.

Overall, "Take Me to Church" explores themes of love, worship, sacrifice, guilt, sin, and the rejection of traditional religious institutions. It presents an alternative form of worship and a critique of the hypocritical aspects of organized religion. The lyrics delve into the complex emotions and desires that can arise from forbidden love and the longing for a sense of transcendence and redemption.