The album Dark Light was recorded by musicians from the rock band HIM under the impression of a collection of legends from different nations. Therefore, in many of the compositions included in the album, there are references to ancient legends.
One such song was Wings of a Butterfly, also known as Rip out the Wings of a Butterfly.
The Story of creation and meaning
Ville Valo said that the song Wings of a Butterfly is based on the ancient Greek myth of immortal butterflies. It was believed that anyone who was cruel enough to tear off their wings would gain eternal life.
The author of the composition makes the listeners think about what they will do to achieve their goal. Are they ready to destroy something beautiful? Are such sacrifices justified?
Release and achievements
The track Wings of a Butterfly was released as the first single from the album “Dark Light”. It topped the charts in Finland and charted in many other countries (number ten in the UK and number 87 in the US).
Music video Rip Out the Wings of a Butterfly by HIM
The video for Wings of a Butterfly – HIM was filmed in Los Angeles. It was directed by Meiert Avis. In 2005, he enjoyed great popularity on MTV2.
Currently, HIM performs Wings of a Butterfly at all concerts.
Lyrics Wings of a Butterfly by HIM
Heaven ablaze in our eyes
We’re standing still in time
The blood on our hands is the wine
We offer as sacrifice
Come on and show them your love
Rip out the wings of a butterfly
For your soul, my love
Rip out the wings of a butterfly
For your soul
This endless mercy mile
We’re crawling side by side
With hell freezing over in our eyes
Gods kneel before our crime
Come on lets show, them your love
Rip out the wings of a butterfly
For your soul, my love
Rip out the wings of a butterfly
For your soul
(Rip out the wings of a butterfly)
Don’t let go
(Rip out the wings of a butterfly)
For your soul
Lyrics of the song Wings of a Butterfly by HIM Alternate
Heaven is burning in our eyes
We stand quietly in time
The blood on our hands is wine
that we sacrifice
Come on, show them your love
Pluck out the wings of a butterfly
For your soul, my love
Pluck out the wings of a butterfly
For the sake of your soul
Down this endless road of pity
We crawl side by side
In our eyes, hell is covered with ice
The gods kneel before our crime
Let’s show them your love
Pluck out the wings of a butterfly
For your soul, my love
Pluck out the wings of a butterfly
For the sake of your soul
(Tear out the butterfly’s wings)
Do not let go
(Tear out the butterfly’s wings)
For the sake of your soul