"The Ballad of Sweeney Todd" tells the dark tale of Sweeney Todd, a barber in London who secretly murders his clients by shaving them and then disposing of their bodies. Despite his neatness and skill, Sweeney is revealed to be a vengeful figure serving a dark god.

Meaning of "The Ballad of Sweeney Todd" by Stephen Sondheim

The lyrics of "The Ballad of Sweeney Todd" paint a chilling portrait of a character who embodies hidden darkness and revenge. Sweeney Todd is portrayed as a meticulous and skilled barber, but underneath his facade lies a sinister nature driven by a desire to seek vengeance on those who have wronged him. The song explores themes of deception, justice, and the consequences of unchecked anger. Sweeney's transformation from a seemingly normal barber to a calculated murderer reflects the danger that lies within individuals who harbor unresolved grievances. The repetition of Sweeney's name in the song emphasizes his presence as a malevolent force lurking beneath the surface. Through this haunting ballad, Sondheim delves into the depths of human nature and the destructive power of bitterness and resentment.