| Sufjan Stevens – Vesuvius Lyrics | 11 years ago |
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I don't think "ghost" necessarily refers to the holy ghost in these lyrics. The "trinity" of Vesuvius (ghost, symbol of light, or fantasy host?) is certainly a reference the Christian God's trinity. But it is also asked in contrast, is Vesuvius one *or* the other, so as in Christianity it is not merely a Unity. The "ghost" of Vesuvius may be a more literal reference: to its dead history of dead people and to Vesuvius as a "dead" volcano. (It is technically still active but in contrast with hits historical significance, not so much) This ghost haunts the singer, tempting him to the flesh. If not, if he doesn't "Seize the day," the lesson of Vesuvius is that he could die "unfulfilled" (it hasn't occured, it hasn't been said). The song contrasts following "ghost" or "host." These are supposed to be opposite outcomes for his dilemma. And "host" seems like the better referant for spirituality/God. "The host" is a synonym for communion, for the body of Christ. Does he follow the host (God) or the ghost of Vesuvius (fear of death)? Alternatively the "host" could be his host body (which certainly ties in to "fantasy host" better). Then "ghost" would mean God/spirit. But I don't think we have to choose one or the other. The paradox of Unity/Trinity is a key element of the song, so I suspect the ambiguity of being either or both at once is intentional. |
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