Meaning of "Trail Of Murder" by Serious Black

The lyrics of "Trail of Murder" delve into themes of secrecy, manipulation, and the consequences of hiding the truth. The desert backdrop symbolizes a barren, desolate landscape, which mirrors the barrenness in the relationship between the speaker and the person they are addressing. The repeated line "Some lie! Some lie! Cover up a trail of murder" suggests a pattern of deception, with someone hiding a series of murders or other crimes. This operation is described as both bold and sublime, highlighting its audacity and underhandedness. The speaker emphasizes that the truth has been obscured, and they implore the listener to question what they have been told.

The character of the "reckless messiah" adds a layer of religious imagery to the song. The messiah is described as "stone cold," suggesting a lack of warmth or compassion. This figure is seen as a manipulator, exerting control over the burning land. The repeated line "Some never listen but I say I think you should" implies that the speaker has knowledge or insight that is being ignored.

In the later verses, the lyrics take a more introspective turn, with the protagonist recognizing the shards and splinters in their own soul. The bloody trail of murder mentioned earlier could also be interpreted as a metaphor for the emotional scars left by deception and manipulation. Despite the illusion of control, the trail of murder continues further, suggesting that the consequences of deceit are far-reaching.

Overall, "Trail of Murder" serves as a commentary on the dangers of deception and the importance of uncovering the truth. It explores themes of manipulation, control, and the lingering effects of secrecy. The lyrics paint a bleak picture of a relationship tainted by lies and murder, challenging the listener to question the narratives they are presented with and to seek the truth.