About

This website gathers original writings focusing on Manic Street Preachers’ 1994 album The Holy Bible.

While the album has garnered widespread acclaim and been the subject of countless articles (journalistic and academic) and two books, there remains much scope for critical analysis of the lyrics and music, discussion of the context from which it emerged, and in particular a close study of the source materials which helped to shape it.

Those familiar with The Holy Bible will be aware of its densely allusive, multimedia approach – in addition to lyrics and music, it features quotations, images and audio samples. The site aims to reflect this intertextual impulse, by considering the album in connection with a wider range of artworks, literature and events.

Of primary interest is the collage style of many of the lyrics and the website will highlight previously unidentified references, while providing an extended commentary on the prevailing themes of the album. The background to the writing of each song will also be considered, including the band’s own comments, both from the time of the recording and release of The Holy Bible and in the following years. The essays also aim to correct certain misconceptions that remain common in writing about the band focusing on this period.

Detailed attention will be given to the contributions of band member Richey Edwards. It is not the intention of this website to speculate on the circumstances of Edwards’ disappearance in 1995.

Lyrics and illustrations are included under the terms of fair dealing, for the purposes of criticism or review, and no copyright on such materials is claimed. Author credits and sources will be given where applicable. Any enquiries, comments and corrections may be sent to 227lears@gmail.com

– Yusef Sayed, 2019 (updated 2022)

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