Mercies
Israel & New Breed Lyrics

The lyrics of Israel & New Breed's song "Mercies" delve into a complex and emotionally charged narrative. At the beginning of the song, we are introduced to a man who is grappling with a tumultuous internal struggle. He is faced with a situation where he feels abandoned by a woman, leaving him in a state of confusion and despair. The imagery of "blind fury against himself" and "moaning in misery" paints a picture of intense emotional turmoil and self-blame.

As the song progresses, the intensity heightens as the man's emotions are likened to a "war chorus" that reverberates through his being. The source of his heartache is revealed to be a beautiful woman who seems to show him no mercy, adding a layer of betrayal to his pain. The juxtaposition of her physical beauty with her apparent lack of compassion adds a complexity to the man's suffering, hinting at a deeper emotional entanglement between the two characters.

The man's descent into despair is further emphasized as he metaphorically drowns himself in mud, a symbol of being overwhelmed by his imagination and exaggerated sense of pain. The desperation in his desire for the "brilliant mud" to lift him up to live suggests a yearning for some form of salvation or redemption. The lyrics also touch upon themes of fate and inevitability, questioning why the woman allowed this emotional tragedy to unfold and pondering the cyclical nature of suffering and unanswered questions.

In the closing verses, there is a plea for compassion and protection towards the woman who has caused the man's suffering. The refrain "curse her in happiness" echoes the tangled web of emotions that bind the two characters together. It suggests a complicated dynamic where love and pain are intertwined, highlighting the complexity of human relationships and the dual nature of gifts and curses. Ultimately, the lyrics of "Mercies" explore themes of heartache, betrayal, and the enduring impact of emotional wounds, inviting listeners to contemplate the complexities of human emotions and relationships.