Hmmm. I don't know about LaughingLynx's idea about a deceased older sibling; I cannot see that in the lyrics myself. I do, however, like his connecting the mythical dangers of dragons, ghosts, and devils to the real dangers of childhood like SIDS and various childhood diseases. Much like those older perceived dangers, children are more susceptible to these real perils than adults, despite everything parents do to protect them (locks, chains, dogs).
In a more expansive sense, "No Lullaby" is about a loss of innocence once children learn fear. The singer is almost guiding the child in ways to strike back at the darkness in terms a child can understand like "come out fighting with your rattle in hand" and "gather your toys in a call to arms". He's telling the child to be watchful and wary and mindful that he or she is vulnerable. The child is his or her own last line of defense, which is a paralyzing thought for those of us who have children.
Hmmm. I don't know about LaughingLynx's idea about a deceased older sibling; I cannot see that in the lyrics myself. I do, however, like his connecting the mythical dangers of dragons, ghosts, and devils to the real dangers of childhood like SIDS and various childhood diseases. Much like those older perceived dangers, children are more susceptible to these real perils than adults, despite everything parents do to protect them (locks, chains, dogs).
In a more expansive sense, "No Lullaby" is about a loss of innocence once children learn fear. The singer is almost guiding the child in ways to strike back at the darkness in terms a child can understand like "come out fighting with your rattle in hand" and "gather your toys in a call to arms". He's telling the child to be watchful and wary and mindful that he or she is vulnerable. The child is his or her own last line of defense, which is a paralyzing thought for those of us who have children.
@ThreeSongRule excellent perspective
@ThreeSongRule excellent perspective