The song “Unholy” by Sam Smith deals with the theme of infidelity and the manipulation of relationships for personal gain. The lyrics paint a picture of a man who is cheating on his wife or partner, and specifically mentions that he is “doing something unholy” at a body shop. This suggests that the man is involved in immoral or unethical behavior while he is away from his family, and is potentially engaging in an extramarital affair.
One of the key themes of the song is the idea of deception and secrecy. The lyrics mention that the man’s wife or partner is unaware of his actions, and the speaker seems to be complicit in keeping the affair a secret. This suggests that the man is trying to maintain the appearance of a happy and faithful relationship, while secretly engaging in behavior that goes against the trust and commitment of that relationship. Although he is trying to keep it a secret, many of the people at the body shop have been talking about where he has been and what he has been doing and how he isn’t doing a great job of hiding it.
In addition to infidelity, the song also explores the corrupting influence of materialism on relationships. The man gives his mistress designer items such as Prada and Miu Miu in exchange for her company. This implies that the man is using material possessions as a way to control and manipulate his mistress, and that he is willing to buy her loyalty and silence with material goods. It also mentions that his mistress is married to someone just like him and that if she knew about everything he was doing, she would kick him out.
Another important theme in the song is the idea of selfishness and the harm that the man’s actions are causing to those around him. The lyrics mention that he leaves his kids at home while he goes out to cheat, suggesting that he is willing to neglect his responsibilities as a parent in order to pursue his own selfish desires. This behavior is depicted as being irresponsible and harmful to his family, and suggests a lack of concern for the well-being of those closest to him.
Overall, “Unholy” presents a bleak view of relationships and the ways in which people can be willing to hurt and deceive those closest to them in order to satisfy their own desires. Through its themes of infidelity, manipulation, and the corrupting influence of materialism, the song highlights the dangers of allowing these negative forces to take hold in a relationship.
