Forbidden Colours (From ”Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence”)

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a picture of profound, almost spiritual devotion tested by immense distance and doubt. The narrator grapples with a love that feels inherently transgressive, described as wearing "forbidden colours." This isn't just a crush; it's a deep-seated belief, a life-affirming force that persists despite overwhelming obstacles. The opening lines about "wounds on your hands never seem to heal" immediately establish a sense of enduring pain and sacrifice, setting a somber tone for this unwavering commitment. The central tension lies between this powerful, almost religious faith and the harsh realities of time and personal struggle. "Senseless years thunder by" and the narrator's own "walking in circles" while "doubting the very ground beneath me" highlight a profound internal conflict. Yet, the repetition of "My life believes in you once again" underscores a relentless, almost desperate, need to hold onto this devotion, even when logic or experience suggests otherwise. The most striking element is the recurring motif of "forbidden colours." This evocative phrase suggests a love or belief that defies societal norms or personal limitations, something beautiful but dangerous, or perhaps simply ostracized. It’s contrasted with the stark imagery of "the blood of Christ" and "my heart," placing this personal, forbidden affection on a similar plane of intense, almost sacred significance. The narrator’s hands, initially associated with the wounds of another, become "in the soil, buried inside of myself," a powerful image of introspection and perhaps self-imposed isolation. Ultimately, the effectiveness of these lyrics stems from their raw portrayal of enduring faith against a backdrop of pain and uncertainty. The narrator’s struggle isn't about finding an easy answer but about the sheer act of continuing to believe, to love, even when that love is "forbidden." The cyclical nature of the verses, returning to the core declarations of belief, mirrors the persistent, almost involuntary nature of this deep-seated emotional and spiritual connection.