Memento Mori

Architects' song 'Memento Mori' delves deep into the existential themes of life, death, and the natural cycles that govern our existence. The title itself, 'Memento Mori,' is a Latin phrase meaning 'remember you must die,' which sets the tone for the entire song. The lyrics explore the inevitability of death and the importance of accepting it as a natural part of life. The repeated phrases 'As above, so below' and 'As within, so without' suggest a connection between the microcosm and the macrocosm, emphasizing that the patterns we see in the universe are mirrored within ourselves.

The song's lyrics also touch on the concept of impermanence and the futility of resisting change. Lines like 'Change, and everything is change / Nothing can be held onto' highlight the transient nature of life. The metaphor of swimming with the stream versus resisting it serves as a powerful illustration of how acceptance can lead to peace, while resistance only brings struggle. The recurring theme of decay as the only law underscores the idea that everything must eventually return to the earth, reinforcing the cyclical nature of existence.

Architects use vivid imagery and metaphors to convey their message. The line 'It'll wear you down through skin and bone' speaks to the relentless passage of time and the inevitability of physical decay. The song also poses profound questions about the meaning of life and death, asking 'Was your life worth dying for?' and 'Will I see God?' These questions invite listeners to reflect on their own lives and the legacy they will leave behind. The closing lines, 'Memento Mori, be mindful of death,' serve as a poignant reminder to live fully and authentically, embracing the inevitability of our own mortality.