Meaning of "At Dawn They Sleep" by Slayer

The lyrics of "At Dawn They Sleep" delve into the world of vampires, drawing upon themes of darkness, lust, and addiction. The song captures the allure and fear associated with these nocturnal creatures. The line "light now slips away" represents the relinquishing of moral boundaries, as the darkness takes over. The reference to "manipulating your mind" suggests the power vampires have over their victims, controlling their thoughts and desires. The chorus further emphasizes the vampire's nature as bloodsuckers hiding from the light and eagerly awaiting their next victim. The lyrics explore the intricate relationship between the vampire and its prey, depicting the vampires as "apparitions from the pits of Hell" who bring death and lust to the streets while keeping their secrets hidden. The addiction to blood is highlighted, implying that the vampires are driven by an insatiable thirst for immortality and power. The line "at dawn they sleep" suggests that the vampires must retreat and rest during the daylight hours, leaving their victims to bear the consequences of their actions. Overall, "At Dawn They Sleep" presents a dark and chilling portrayal of vampires and their primal hunger for blood.