Meloy began his song writing days after learning to play the guitar in the seventh grade. He began recording in the eighth grade as a member of the musical collaboration, The B-Sides, recording, (to cassette tape), "The Mellow Bluesmen Die: A Spiritual Progression." He followed that with the band Figurehead, recording "Jesus' Mom." In his high school days Meloy was also part of Helena, Montana's Happy Cactus, releasing one album, "Cricket." Meloy also headed the now defunct, Tarkio, during his college days in Missoula, Montana. His career really began with the forming of The Decemberists in Portland, Oregon, in 2000.
Jack The Ripper
Colin Meloy Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Mouth slack and wide
Ill-housed and ill-advised
Your face is as mean
As your life has been
Crash into my arms
I want you
But you don't refuse
I know you
And I know a place
Where no-one is likely to pass
Oh, you don't care if it's late
And you don't care if you're lost
And oh, you look so tired
But tonight you've presumed too much
Too much, too much
And if it's the last thing I ever do
I'm gonna get you
Crash into my arms
I want you
You don't agree
But you don't refuse
I know you
And no one knows a thing about my life
I can come and go as I please
If I want to I can stay
Or if I want to I can leave
Nobody knows me, nobody knows me
Nobody knows me, nobody knows me
Aah, aah, nobody knows me
Aah, aah, nobody knows me
Aah, aah, nobody knows me
The song "Jack the Ripper" by Colin Meloy is a haunting ballad that speaks to a deep sense of loneliness and desperation. The lyrics suggest that the singer has encountered someone who appears worn out and beaten down by life. Despite the other person's initial reluctance, the singer offers them solace and companionship, inviting them to "crash into [their] arms."
The lyrics paint a picture of two lost souls coming together in a private sanctuary away from the prying eyes of the outside world. The singer offers a place where "no one is likely to pass" and the other person can let down their guard. The repeated mention of the subject's tiredness suggests they have been carrying a heavy burden for some time, but the singer offers them a respite from their troubles.
The song is an evocative and emotional exploration of human connection and the power of one person to offer comfort to another. The lyrics and melody are haunting and melancholy, creating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability that is palpable.
Line by Line Meaning
Oh, you look so tired
You appear exhausted
Mouth slack and wide
Your mouth is open and relaxed
Ill-housed and ill-advised
You live in poor housing and make bad choices
Your face is as mean
Your face displays an unkind expression
As your life has been
Reflecting the negative experiences you've had in life
Crash into my arms
Come towards me with force
I want you
I desire your company
You don't agree
You don't share my desire
But you don't refuse
You don't reject my offer
And I know a place
I am familiar with a location
Where no-one is likely to pass
Where it is unlikely for someone else to cross
Oh, you don't care if it's late
You are not concerned if it's past an appropriate time
And you don't care if you're lost
You are not worried if you are not sure of your location
But tonight you've presumed too much
But tonight you have made an assumption that is unwarranted
And if it's the last thing I ever do
No matter what, I am resolute in my course of action
I'm gonna get you
I will meet you, despite your lack of desire
And no one knows a thing about my life
Nobody is aware of my personal affairs
I can come and go as I please
I am free to move about without restriction
If I want to I can stay
I have the option to remain if I so choose
Or if I want to I can leave
If I desire, I can depart
Nobody knows me, nobody knows me
I am not known by anyone
Aah, aah, nobody knows me
Nobody has familiarity with my character or persona
Contributed by Hudson K. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
@zillmopig
I forgot this version existed until now. I love it.
@joerents7902
Great cover. Kept the Morrissey essence and at the same time added his unique touch to it.
@kelsomething3982
Such a great Morrisey cover ❤️
@ashleyv017
Thank you~ This is actually one of my favorite songs sung by him, period ;3
@hannahjames3180
Fantastic cover! Thank you for uploading.
@kevxxxedge
Great job man. Really erie and the vibe is awesome.
@ironmaven1760
Thank you SO MUCH for this!...love it..
@Pumpeduse
Waaaw. Maybe even beter than the original version 🥰🥰🥰
@gracebudd1837
love it
@adrimartin5444
Fantastic song