Song Meaning
The lyrics paint a vivid, almost theatrical scene of damnation, where Hell itself prepares for the arrival of new "Guests." There's an immediate sense of dread and anticipation as "new Guests draw near," described as appearing "on the brink of Hell." The dominant tone is one of grim satisfaction and judgment, as the infernal forces ready themselves for the arrival of "impious Men." These men, it's stated, "far excell / All th'Inhabitants of Hell" in their wickedness, setting up a chilling hierarchy of sin.
The core tension lies in the anticipation of ultimate retribution for extreme wickedness. The repeated "Let 'em come, Let 'em come" isn't a welcome, but a defiant summons to face an "Eternal dreadful Doom." The lyrics emphasize that these individuals have outdone even the damned in their earthly "Mischiefs," driven by "Bloud and Lust." This suggests a profound moral failing that even Hell finds noteworthy, necessitating a special, exquisite torment.
The most striking craft element is the personification of Hell as an active, preparing entity, complete with "fresh Flame of Sulphur" and assembled "Fiends." This isn't a passive state of damnation, but an active, almost eager reception. The contrast between the earthly "mischiefs" and the "exquisite Torments" that await highlights the severity of the judgment. The repetition of "Eternal" – "Eternal dreadful Doom," "Eternal moan," "Eternal Darkness," "Eternal chains," "infinite pain" – hammers home the inescapable and unending nature of their punishment.
These lyrics are effective because they create a powerful, visceral image of divine justice, albeit a terrifying one. The deliberate, almost ritualistic preparation of Hell for these particular sinners makes their fate feel earned and inevitable. The stark, unvarnished language leaves no room for ambiguity, directly linking earthly transgressions to an unending, agonizing consequence, making the concept of damnation feel chillingly concrete.
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