The Meaning Behind The Song: Around The Fur by Deftones
Introduction
Around The Fur is one of the most iconic songs by Deftones, an American alternative metal band formed in Sacramento, California in 1988. The song was released as a single in 1998, and it’s included in the album of the same name. Around The Fur has been praised by critics and fans alike for its unique sound and lyrics. In this article, we’ll explore the meaning behind the song and answer some frequently asked questions related to it.
Table of Contents
The Lyrics of Around The Fur
The lyrics of Around The Fur are quite cryptic and difficult to interpret. However, some themes and ideas can be discerned from the text. The song seems to be about a relationship that is doomed to fail due to miscommunication and misunderstanding.
The opening lines set the tone for the rest of the song:
Hey vanity, this vile’s empty And so are you Hey glamorous, this vile’s not God anymore This step’s ceremonial
The references to “vanity” and “glamorous” suggest that the song is about someone who is obsessed with their appearance and status. The “vile” that is empty could be a metaphor for their soul. The lines “this vile’s not God anymore” and “this step’s ceremonial” could indicate that the person has lost their faith in something or someone.
The chorus of the song goes:
Hey angel, consider, consider my plea And it’s my honor to be taking a bath in your milky white
This is perhaps the most enigmatic part of the lyrics. The reference to the “milky white” could be a metaphor for purity or innocence. The speaker seems to be asking the “angel” to consider something, but it’s not clear what.
The second verse of the song is as follows:
Hey fortunate chaos, for such a masterpiece I’m building Without the glue And tissue (I want to free you) Hey fortunate chaos, for such a thunderstorm I’m building Without the rain and window (I want to free you)
The “fortunate chaos” could be interpreted as the emotional turmoil that the speaker is feeling. The lines “for such a masterpiece I’m building” and “for such a thunderstorm I’m building” suggest that the speaker is trying to create something out of their emotions. The final line “I want to free you” could indicate that the speaker is trying to help the person they are addressing to be free from their obsessions.
The Musical Style of Around The Fur
Apart from the lyrics, the musical style of Around The Fur is also worth noting. The song combines elements of alternative metal, post-hardcore, and psychedelic rock. The heavy guitar riffs, screaming vocals, and pounding drums are characteristic of Deftones’ style. However, the song also features a dreamy, trippy melody that sets it apart from their other work.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who wrote Around The Fur?
Around The Fur was written by the members of Deftones: Chino Moreno, Stephen Carpenter, Chi Cheng, Abe Cunningham, and Frank Delgado.
2. What album is Around The Fur on?
Around The Fur is the title track of the album of the same name. The album was released in 1997.
3. What genre is Around The Fur?
Around The Fur is a mix of alternative metal, post-hardcore, and psychedelic rock.
4. What is the meaning of the title Around The Fur?
The meaning of the title is unclear. Some suggest that it’s a reference to fur clothing, which could be seen as a symbol of vanity and excess.
5. Who is the “angel” mentioned in the chorus?
The identity of the “angel” is not specified in the song. It could be a metaphor for someone the speaker is addressing, or it could be a more abstract idea.
6. What is the significance of the “milky white” mentioned in the chorus?
The “milky white” is not explained in the song. It could be a metaphor for purity, innocence, or something else entirely.
7. What is the meaning of the lines “this vile’s not God anymore”?
The meaning of this line is unclear. It could be interpreted as a loss of faith or trust in something or someone.
8. What is the tone of the song?
The tone of the song is moody, atmospheric, and somewhat ominous. The heavy guitar riffs and pounding drums create a sense of tension and instability.
9. What inspired Deftones to write Around The Fur?
The band members have not commented on the specific inspiration for the song. However, it’s likely that it was influenced by their own personal experiences and emotions.
10. Why is Around The Fur considered one of Deftones’ best songs?
Around The Fur is often cited as one of Deftones’ best songs because of its unique sound and cryptic lyrics. The song showcases their versatility as a band and their ability to combine different genres and styles.
11. What other songs are similar to Around The Fur?
Some other songs by Deftones that have a similar sound to Around The Fur include Lotion, Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away), and My Own Summer (Shove It).
12. What is the legacy of Around The Fur?
Around The Fur is considered a classic song by Deftones and has had a lasting impact on the alternative metal and post-hardcore genres. The song has been covered by other musicians and featured in movies and TV shows.
