Sherlock and Eurus: The Hidden Meaning Behind the Musgrave Ritual

In Arthur Conan Doyle's series of Sherlock Holmes stories, one particularly obscure and intriguing scene involves Eurus playing a piece of music titled the Musgrave Ritual. This piece is both mysterious and enigmatic, and its true meaning has captivated readers for decades. Let’s delve into the details and explore the significance of what Eurus was playing on her violin when Sherlock visits her.

The Musgrave Ritual and Its Origins

First published in the short story "The Adventure of the Musgrave Ritual" in the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Annual for 1897, the Musgrave Ritual is a folk song that Eurus Musgrave performs for Sherlock Holmes. This piece is of particular interest as it is derived from a misinterpretation of the tombstones in the Musgrave family burial ground.

The song, though cryptic and deeply personal, reveals much about Eurus's character and the family history. It is a sad and haunting melody, fitting for a story that deals with themes of love, loss, and hidden family secrets.

The Lyrics and Their Meaning

I AM LOST OH WHO WILL FIND ME

This opening line immediately evokes a feeling of despair and isolation. Eurus seems to be searching for someone or something to guide her through her troubles. The isolation could represent her emotional state or a physical isolation from her family and loved ones.

DEEP DOWN BELOW THAT OLD BECH TREE

The mention of a beech tree is significant in the narrative. This tree is likely a personal or family symbol, possibly representing a place of regret or memory. The phrase "deep down below" suggests a sense of something buried or hidden, perhaps indicating the song's connection to buried family truths or secrets.

HELP SUCCOR ME NOW

The line "HELP succor ME now the east wind blows" seems to invoke a call for assistance, perhaps during times of crisis. The mention of the "east wind" could symbolize change or transformation, while "succor ME" suggests the need for support or aid.

SIXTEEN BY SIX

The phrase "sixteen by six" is intriguing and appears to be a recurring motif within the song. This could represent a specific number or pattern, possibly symbolizing a hidden message or a personal significance to Eurus. Given the cryptic nature of the song, this phrase likely holds special meaning within the context of the Musgrave family and their history.

WALK IN THE SHADE, SAVE ONE SAVE ALL

"BE not afraid to walk in the shade. SAVE one save all come try!" These lines suggest the importance of being courageous in the face of uncertainty and the idea of making a difference. This could be a call to action for Eurus, or perhaps a reflection of her feelings about her own situation.

MYS STEPS FIVE BY SEVEN LIFE IS CLOSER TO HEAVEN

These lines further explore the theme of life's journey and the belief that death or the afterlife is closer when one is closer to nature. The number and patterns mentioned (five by seven) could again be significant, possibly pointing to ancient rituals or family traditions.

LOOK DOWN WITH DARK GAZE FROM ON HIGH

The dark gaze from on high suggests a supernatural or spiritual perspective. This could be a metaphor for divine judgment or a higher understanding of life and death.

BROTHE B SAT RIGHT BACK OVER MY HILL WHO NOW WILL FIND HIM WHY NOBODY WILL

"BEFORE he was gone right back over MY hill/Who now will find him Why nobody will" This segment is particularly poignant, as it speaks of loss and the difficulty of finding one's way through life's turning points. The idea that "nobody will" find him could suggest a sense of futility or hopelessness.

DOOM SHALL I BRING TO HIM I THAT AM QUEEN

"DOOM shall I bring to him I that AM queen." Eurus's declaration that she is queen and the prospect of bringing doom to someone could suggest a sense of power and responsibility. However, the use of "queen" also implies a longing for control or the desire to be recognized as such.

LOST FOREVER NINE BY NINTEEN

The phrase "LOST forever nine by nineteen" concludes on a note of finality, perhaps symbolizing a permanent loss or the depth of Eurus's despair. The repetition of the number nine could carry symbolic significance, such as representing the nine lives of a cat or a ninefold curse.

WITHOUT YOUR LOVE HE WILL BE GONE BEFORE

The final lines, "SAVE pity for strangers show love the door. MY SOUL SEEKS the shade of MY willow’s bloom. Inside brother mine let Death make a ROOM." These are perhaps the most poignant, as they suggest a plea for empathy and the need for shelter and comfort. The willow and the death room could represent a place of solace and acceptance.

Analysis and Implications

The Musgrave Ritual is not just a song; it is a form of expression for Eurus, woven into the fabric of her personality and her relationship with Sherlock Holmes. Through this piece, Eurus reveals deep personal truths and her complex emotions. The song serves as a bridge between the tangible world and the intangible realms of family history, love, and loss.

The emotions and themes expressed in the Musgrave Ritual reflect the broader narrative of the Sherlock Holmes series, which often explores hidden truths, psychological depths, and the complexities of human relationships. Eurus's performance of this song not only enriches the story but also provides a window into her soul and the mysteries of the Musgrave family.

Conclusion

Arthur Conan Doyle's use of the Musgrave Ritual as a musical piece in the story adds layers of depth and complexity to the narrative. Through the enigmatic and evocative lyrics, the song invites readers to explore the hidden meanings and emotions that lie beneath the surface. The Musgrave Ritual remains a fascinating element of Sherlock Holmes literature, offering ongoing analysis and interpretation.