These Three Things

Type O Negative's song "These Three Things" delves into heavy and controversial themes, exploring the consequences of sin, particularly focusing on abortion, and the path to redemption. The lyrics are dense with religious imagery and metaphors, reflecting the band's gothic and doom metal style, which often incorporates dark, brooding themes and a deep, melancholic sound.

The song begins with a stark depiction of infanticide, describing a child torn from the womb unbaptized, immediately setting a grim tone. The narrator acknowledges guilt and condemnation, suggesting a personal or societal judgment. The reference to "destroying angels" and being "deprived of paradise" evokes a sense of divine retribution and eternal punishment, painting a vivid picture of the spiritual consequences of such actions.

As the song progresses, it warns against abortion, using intense imagery like "boiling sulphur" and "flaming cell" to describe the hellish outcomes of such decisions. The lyrics also touch on broader themes of sin and redemption, mentioning the return of a messianic figure and the struggle for salvation. The mention of "area 51" and the year 1948, likely referencing the establishment of Israel, adds a layer of geopolitical and historical context, suggesting a connection between modern events and ancient prophecies.

The final verses bring in apocalyptic imagery, referencing Armageddon and the fall of Babylon, symbolizing the ultimate battle between good and evil. The song concludes with a message of forgiveness and salvation, implying that despite the darkness and sin, there is a path to redemption through faith and repentance. This complex interplay of themes makes "These Three Things" a profound and thought-provoking piece, reflecting Type O Negative's signature style of blending dark, gothic elements with deep philosophical and theological questions.