Meaning of "Mary Jane Kelly" by Volbeat

The lyrics of "Mary Jane Kelly" delve into the tragic story of Mary Jane Kelly, a historical figure known as one of Jack the Ripper's victims. The song portrays her as a lonely and forgotten woman, whose beauty remains even after her death. It begins by describing Mary Jane as sad and singing sadly, symbolizing her profound sadness and the tragedy she endured. The line that mentions a violet plucked from Mother's grave could be interpreted as a metaphor for the innocence and purity that was taken away from her. The reference to Thomas Bowyer, an ex-soldier who found her in the gutter, points to the brutal circumstances of her murder. The chorus acknowledges that whatever Mary Jane might have said or done, it does not justify the pain she went through, highlighting the injustice she faced.

The lyrics also address the mystery surrounding Mary Jane's murder. The song questions who the "gentleman" she had that night was, referring to the possible perpetrator of the crime. The line about a "Letter from Hell" implies that there may have been some written correspondence related to the crime but no significant information was revealed. The repetition of the phrase "she's been lonely and forgotten ever since" emphasizes the ongoing neglect and lack of recognition Mary Jane has faced. The mention of angels waiting and victims laying highlights the overarching theme of the song: the search for justice and closure for Mary Jane and all the victims of similar crimes.

In terms of musical composition, "Mary Jane Kelly" features Volbeat's signature blend of heavy rock and metal with elements of rockabilly and punk. The energetic instrumentation adds to the intensity and urgency of the lyrics, enhancing the emotional impact of the song. The use of repetition throughout the lyrics reinforces the idea that Mary Jane's story should be remembered and her beauty should not be forgotten.