Last Caress/Green Hell

Metallica's 'Last Caress/Green Hell' is a cover of two songs originally by the punk band Misfits. The lyrics are stark, violent, and provocative, reflecting the raw and rebellious nature of punk music. The song opens with shocking confessions of murder and rape, delivered in a disturbingly nonchalant manner. This brutal imagery is not meant to be taken literally but rather as a form of extreme expression, challenging societal norms and taboos. The repeated references to 'sweet death' and 'last caress' suggest a morbid fascination with mortality and the finality of death.

The second part of the song, 'Green Hell,' shifts the focus to a metaphorical hell, described as 'green.' This could symbolize a twisted version of paradise or a corrupted natural world. The lyrics speak of inevitable suffering and damnation, with lines like 'We're gonna burn in hell' and 'Hell is reigning in your blood.' The repetition of 'Green hell' emphasizes the inescapable nature of this torment. The song's chaotic and aggressive tone mirrors the themes of destruction and despair.

Metallica's rendition of these songs retains the raw energy and rebellious spirit of the original Misfits tracks while adding their own heavy metal intensity. The band's choice to cover these songs highlights their appreciation for punk's unfiltered expression and its influence on their music. 'Last Caress/Green Hell' serves as a powerful reminder of the darker aspects of human nature and the existential dread that can accompany it.