The meaning of the lyrics of the song "Larder" by the artist "Tiger Lillies, The"

The song "Larder" by The Tiger Lillies tells the story of a man who keeps the body of his deceased lover in his pantry. The lyrics are full of dark irony and black humor, exploring the perverse nature of love, obsession, and grief.

The song opens with the narrator sarcastically introducing us to his "lover," who has been "dead for years." He keeps her in the larder, as if for "jam" or "engagement," showing a complete lack of respect for her as a person. The line "They'd burn her coffin in their pain" adds another layer of mockery, implying that even a ritualistic burning would be a greater sign of respect.

The words "loving her too much to burn" ring hollow and hypocritical. In reality, the narrator is obsessed with control and possession. He cannot let go of his lover even in death, choosing instead to keep her decaying body close to him.

The physical decomposition of the body is emphasized by the line "the flesh does decay," evoking disgust and horror. The narrator's friends are suffering from the stench, indicating that the obsession extends beyond the walls of his home and affects others.

Despite the horrific situation, the narrator sees no problem with his actions. He kisses the dead body and comes home to find "her just the same." He has found justification for his actions in "a book about mummies," as if embalming the body somehow elevates his obsession to something noble.

The song ends by circling back to the beginning, repeating the line "She's here, she's here in the larder," trapping the listener in the vicious cycle of obsession and madness.