What Does Red Right Hand Actually Mean In Peaky Blinders?

by

As a dedicated fan of “Peaky Blinders,” I can confidently say that the show’s dark and atmospheric tone owes much to the enigmatic presence of Tommy Shelby, brilliantly portrayed by Cillian Murphy, and the haunting theme song, “Red Right Hand.” This eerie tune, performed by the talented Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, has become synonymous with the series, setting the stage for each episode’s nail-biting drama.

The gritty gangster series “Peaky Blinders” exudes an understated (yet occasionally overt) sense of danger. A significant portion of this atmosphere is due to Cillian Murphy’s powerful portrayal of Tommy Shelby, the main character, but the mood is established right from the opening scene of the show. In this scene, Tommy calmly rides a horse through the streets of Birmingham, heading towards a fortune teller to ensure his horse wins a race. As terrified onlookers scramble and hide, he nonchalantly reveals the horse’s name and the race it will run in as a complimentary betting tip to those present.

The setting introduces Tommy as both feared and admired, a common man yet possessing an intimidating presence. To emphasize his dangerous nature, the theme song “Red Right Hand” plays as he departs, a song that stands out in “Peaky Blinders,” often considered one of its best aspects. The tune, dark and atmospheric, perfectly suits the show and has become almost synonymous with the series alongside its lead character. However, one might wonder about the meaning behind “Peaky Blinders” and the title of the song itself. Let’s delve into the real story behind both “Peaky Blinders” and “Red Hand.

Where is the phrase Red Right Hand originally from, and what does it mean?

The phrase “Red Right Hand” isn’t merely a catchy song title created for the show; instead, it has deep historical roots dating back to 1667. English poet John Milton coined this term in his epic poem “Paradise Lost,” which recounts Adam and Eve’s original sin and Satan’s fall from grace. The characterization of Satan as a captivating, even tragic antagonist is well-known in the poem. In this context, the initial reference to a red right hand carries significant Biblical connotations as a warning.

Imagine if the spark that ignited those fierce flames were to grow even stronger, inflaming them seven times over and engulfing us. Or perhaps retribution from above would be reawakened, ready to inflict more torment upon us through divine intervention.

In the music of Nick Cave, who wrote “Red Right Hand”, you can find references to this quote. He makes it clearer in the lyrics of another song, the 1996 murder ballad “Song of Joy”. This song portrays a serial killer who often leaves Milton quotes – including the one about the red right hand – at his crime scenes.

Who sings the Peaky Blinders theme Red Right Hand and what does it mean?

The theme song for the TV show “Peaky Blinders,” titled “Red Right Hand,” is sung by Nick Cave, along with his band, the Bad Seeds. This song is from their 1994 album, “Let Love In.” Nick Cave, Mick Harvey, and Thomas Wydler wrote this song. The red right hand in the song shares a theme with John Milton’s version, but the menacing figure wielding it appears to be a more immediate and direct threat. The lyrics portray a rundown urban setting where an enigmatic, captivating, and possibly supernatural man with a red right hand moves around, ensnaring people in his plots, executing his grand plans, and ruling over the slums. The song’s eerie, unique gothic blues sound complements “Peaky Blinders” well, especially its main villain, Tommy Shelby.

Known for his versatile career as a musician, novelist, and scriptwriter, Cave is renowned for a diverse range of songs spanning from aggressive punk rock to soothing piano ballads. In 2019, during a solo Conversations concert and spoken word event held in Birmingham, the city where “Peaky Blinders” originated, he discussed the link between “Red Right Hand” and the series. Notably, he penned a controversial screenplay for a “Gladiator” sequel titled “Gladiator 2: Christ Killer.

As a gamer, I can’t help but express my enthusiasm when I say, “That show is truly something special!” Yet, it never ceases to amaze me when fellow fans approach and share their admiration, “I’m one of your biggest supporters,” they say, “Your music found its way into my heart through ‘Peaky Blinders.’

Where else you’ve heard Red Right Hand in film and TV?

As a music enthusiast, if “Red Right Hand” resonates with you, it might be due to its extensive use across various media. Although it may not have been a chart-topping sensation, this song has garnered significant attention behind the scenes. Its popularity is evident in numerous films, TV shows, and advertisements that seek to convey a particular mood or atmosphere.

David McGinnis from Mute Song explained to Variety in 2018 that “Red Right Hand” isn’t used frequently because it’s about quality rather than quantity. It doesn’t fit into standard film and TV scenarios, instead serving as the main focus when it is used. The dialogue pauses, and the scene is designed around the song. It’s not suitable for every situation, but when it fits, it’s spot-on and leaves a lasting impression.

The results of this tactical use of “Red Right Hand” — both the original song and various cover versions and remixes — can be witnessed in movies and shows like “The X-Files,” various films in the Scream franchise, Guillermo del Toro’s “Hellboy,” and “The Lost City.” Both the Jim Carrey movie “Dumb & Dumber” and the soccer comedy-drama “Ted Lasso” have even managed to use the song’s intensity for comedic purposes.

Read More

2024-11-03 00:02