Here Comes the Night Time

Arcade Fire's 'Here Comes the Night Time' is a profound exploration of the contrast between light and darkness, both literally and metaphorically. The song opens with the imagery of the sun setting and the ensuing darkness, symbolizing a transition from a state of clarity and safety to one of uncertainty and fear. The repeated line 'Here comes the night time' serves as a forewarning of this inevitable shift, suggesting a cyclical nature to these experiences.

The lyrics delve into themes of exclusion and spiritual disillusionment, particularly through the mention of missionaries and preachers. The lines 'They say heaven's a place and they know where it is / It's behind the gate, they won't let you in' critique the gatekeeping of spiritual enlightenment and salvation. This exclusion is further emphasized by the imagery of locked doors and the absence of music in heaven, questioning the very purpose of such a paradise if it lacks the vibrancy of life. The song suggests that true spiritual experience is found in the visceral, communal experience of music and dance, rather than in rigid dogma.

The song also touches on the internal struggle for righteousness and the search for meaning. The lines 'If you want to be righteous, get in line' and 'If you're looking for hell, just try looking inside' highlight the internal conflict and the societal pressures to conform to certain moral standards. The night time, in this context, represents a period of introspection and self-discovery, where one must confront their inner demons and question the established norms. Arcade Fire uses the night as a metaphor for these deeper, often darker, aspects of the human experience, urging listeners to look within themselves for answers.