Cupid Carries a Gun

Marilyn Manson's 'Cupid Carries a Gun' is a haunting exploration of dark romance, rebellion, and the subversion of traditional symbols of love and divinity. The song's title itself is a provocative twist on the classical image of Cupid, the Roman god of love, who traditionally carries a bow and arrow. By arming Cupid with a gun, Manson suggests a more violent, aggressive form of love, one that is far removed from the innocent and tender connotations usually associated with the deity.

The lyrics are rich with gothic and occult imagery, starting with the pounding of 'witch drums,' which sets a ritualistic and almost primal tone. This is further emphasized by the line 'Better pray for hell, not hallelujah,' indicating a preference for chaos and darkness over conventional notions of salvation and purity. Manson's self-description as 'the curled up fists' and 'dead and hardened spiders' paints a picture of a figure who is both menacing and enigmatic, embodying elements of death and decay.

The song also delves into themes of power and control, as seen in the lines 'I'm your god or your guardian' and 'One hand on the trigger, the other hand in mine.' Here, Manson positions himself as a dominant force, capable of both protection and destruction. The imagery of 'crow-black eyes' and 'fucked like a comet' adds a layer of intense, almost apocalyptic passion, further complicating the traditional notions of love and desire. The repeated refrain to 'keep your halos tight' serves as a warning to maintain one's guard, as the world Manson describes is one where innocence is easily corrupted and love is a dangerous game.