Follow in the Cry

“Follow in the Cry” by After Forever delves into the themes of power, tyranny, and blind obedience. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world where individuals hide their true intentions behind a façade, driven by an insatiable lust for power. This lust leads to the exploitation of others' weaknesses, creating a cycle of fear and oppression. The phrase “Fear is the doom, doom of us all” encapsulates the idea that fear is a powerful tool used to control and manipulate the masses, allowing tyranny to flourish unchecked.

The song also touches on the concept of religious extremism, as evidenced by the repeated line “All means are justified for the djihad fi sabil Allah.” This line suggests that in the pursuit of power, any action, no matter how violent or unjust, is deemed acceptable. The lyrics describe the persecution of those labeled as heretics, who are silenced and punished for their unchaste thoughts. This reflects the dangers of fundamentalism, where rigid adherence to dogma leads to the suppression of dissent and the justification of atrocities.

The chorus, “I embrace you, accept my soul, I shall make my life subordinate to you,” highlights the theme of blind obedience. It portrays a character who willingly surrenders their autonomy and follows the prescribed rules and laws without question. This submission is depicted as a form of self-sacrifice, where the individual’s identity and freedom are subsumed by the demands of a higher authority. The repetition of “Follow in the cry” serves as a haunting reminder of the consequences of such unquestioning loyalty, urging listeners to reflect on the cost of surrendering their will to oppressive forces.