Metallica's song "The Thing That Should Not Be," featured on their 1986 album "Master of Puppets," delves into the realm of cosmic horror, drawing inspiration from the works of H.P. Lovecraft and exploring themes of fear, madness, and the unknown. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a malevolent entity lurking beneath the sea, instilling terror and madness in those who encounter it.
The song opens with the portrayal of a "Messenger of Fear," signaling the arrival of impending doom and darkness. The imagery of "Dark deception kills the light" sets a foreboding tone, hinting at the sinister nature of the entity that is about to be revealed.
As the verses progress, the lyrics evoke a sense of dread and unease as they describe the hybrid children praying for their father's safety while he roams free. The repetition of "fearless Wretch, insanity" underscores the psychological toll of encountering the lurking horror beneath the sea.
The song introduces the concept of a "great Old One," a forbidden entity from ancient times, rising from the depths to wreak havoc upon the world. The imagery of "Crawling Chaos, underground" and the summoning of a twisted cult add layers of mystique and horror to the narrative.
As the song reaches its climax, it delves deeper into the cosmic horror mythos, referencing the eternal existence of the entity and its ability to drain its victims of their sanity. The haunting refrain of "face The Thing That Should Not Be" serves as a chilling reminder of the incomprehensible terror that lurks beneath the surface.
In conclusion, "The Thing That Should Not Be" by Metallica offers a chilling glimpse into the world of cosmic horror, drawing upon themes of fear, madness, and forbidden knowledge. Through its evocative lyrics and atmospheric music, the song immerses listeners in a nightmarish landscape where ancient terrors lurk in the depths, waiting to be unleashed upon an unsuspecting world.
