Outstrider

Abbath's song 'Outstrider' is a powerful exploration of rebellion, resilience, and the eternal struggle against oppressive forces. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a protagonist who is steadfast and unyielding, even in the face of divine and infernal adversaries. The opening lines, 'War gods steadfast by my side / Wake of entrails stream behind,' set the tone for a relentless warrior who is undeterred by the chaos and destruction that follows in their wake. This imagery evokes a sense of unwavering determination and a refusal to be subdued by any external force.

The song delves into mythological references, such as Cerberus and Charybdis, to illustrate the protagonist's journey through realms of chaos and order. Cerberus, the three-headed dog guarding the gates of Hades, symbolizes the constant threats and challenges that the protagonist faces. Despite these dangers, the protagonist remains defiant, as seen in the lines 'Rebel don't beg freak never yields / What Mammon won't give the outlaw steals.' This defiance is further emphasized by the repeated assertion that 'Death denies me now,' suggesting an almost supernatural resilience and an unbreakable spirit.

The lyrics also touch on themes of transformation and the rejection of societal norms. The protagonist's scars 'evolve but never change,' indicating a continuous process of growth and adaptation without losing their core identity. The imagery of being 'too debauched for hell / Scorned by heaven's crown' highlights the protagonist's rejection by both divine and infernal powers, positioning them as an eternal outsider. This sense of being an outcast is a central theme, as the protagonist navigates a world that seeks to confine and control them, yet they remain unbowed and unbroken, embodying the spirit of true rebellion and resilience.