The band's early work drew influence from Siouxsie and the Banshees and Joy Division. After signing with the British record label 4AD in 1982, they released their debut album Garlands later that year. The addition of Raymonde in 1983 solidified their final lineup, which produced their biggest hit in the UK, "Pearly-Dewdrops' Drops", peaking at No. 29 on the UK Singles Chart. In 1988, Cocteau Twins signed with Capitol Records in the United States, distributing their fifth album, Blue Bell Knoll, through a major label in the country. After the 1990 release of their most critically acclaimed album, Heaven or Las Vegas, the band left 4AD for Fontana Records, where they released their final two albums.
After nearly 20 years together, the band disbanded in 1997 in part due to issues stemming from the disintegration of Fraser and Guthrie's romantic relationship. In 2005, the band announced that they would reunite to headline Coachella and embark on a world tour but the reunion was cancelled a month later after Fraser refused to perform on stage with Guthrie. In a 2021 interview, Raymonde confirmed that Cocteau Twins "will never reform".
Peppermint Pig
Cocteau Twins Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
It's slightly less snarled, I suppose
Why you must come in by the overland
I'm waiting for the moment, I suppose
You're finding the switch of
The peppermint pig stage
Burning the treasure
While not eating the money
It's slightly less snarled, I suppose
Why you must come in by the overland
I'm waiting for the moment, I suppose
That bunch can be deadly, and
That bunch can be so experienced
The lyrics to Cocteau Twins' song "Peppermint Pig" are, at first glance, ambiguous and seem to lack cohesion. However, upon closer inspection, the meaning begins to reveal itself. The first verse speaks of traveling by the overland, implying that this is the preferable route. It's interesting to note the use of the word "snarled" to describe the alternative method of travel, which could suggest difficulty or danger. The repetition of this verse adds a sense of importance and urgency, as if the singer is waiting for someone to arrive or trying to convince them to come.
The second verse is even more mysterious, using metaphorical language and leaving the interpretation up to the listener. It seems to be describing the act of "finding the switch of the peppermint pig stage," which is not readily apparent what it means. It could refer to discovering something hidden or secret, or perhaps a metaphor for a difficult task. The next line, "burning the treasure while not eating the money," suggests a cautionary tale about not wasting one's resources, but rather using them wisely.
The final verse seems to bring the idea of danger and experience to the forefront. The use of the word "deadly" and "experienced" implies a potentially threatening situation, and perhaps an acknowledgment of the risk involved in the singer's endeavor.
Overall, "Peppermint Pig" is a cryptic song that allows the listener to interpret its meaning in their own way. Its unique and enigmatic lyrics are part of what makes Cocteau Twins' music so distinctive and beloved.
Line by Line Meaning
Why you must come in by the overland
I question the necessity of your arrival through the overland route.
It's slightly less snarled, I suppose
I acknowledge that the overland route may have less obstruction or complexity.
Why you must come in by the overland
Again, I question the necessity of your arrival through the overland route.
I'm waiting for the moment, I suppose
I am anticipating an event that may occur in the near future.
You're finding the switch of
You are discovering the means to operate or control
The peppermint pig stage
The production or performance of a show or spectacle involving the use of a peppermint pig.
Burning the treasure
Destroying valuable items or assets.
While not eating the money
Avoiding depleting or wasting one's financial resources.
Why you must come in by the overland
Once again, I question the necessity of using the overland route for your arrival.
It's slightly less snarled, I suppose
I reiterate that the overland route may have less obstruction or complexity.
Why you must come in by the overland
For a final time, I question the necessity of the overland route for your arrival.
That bunch can be deadly, and
A particular grouping of individuals may be capable of causing harm or danger.
That bunch can be so experienced
Additionally, the same group of people may possess a great deal of knowledge and expertise.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: ELIZABETH FRASER, ROBIN A. GUTHRIE, WILLIAM HEGGIE
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind