Heretic

Avenged Sevenfold's song "Heretic" delves into the dark and harrowing theme of persecution and the unjust treatment of individuals deemed heretics. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of an honest man who is wrongfully imprisoned and condemned, highlighting the brutal and irrational nature of such judgments. The phrase "My flesh will feed the demon" suggests that the protagonist's suffering and eventual death serve as a sacrifice to appease the metaphorical demons of society's fears and prejudices. This line underscores the senselessness of the persecution, as there is "no trial, no case for reason," indicating a complete lack of justice and rationality in the process.

The song further explores the idea of madness and how it is defined by those in power. The line "Mad men define what mad is" points to the arbitrary and often hypocritical nature of such definitions, where those who hold authority can label anyone who opposes them as mad or heretical. This is reinforced by the imagery of "turning witches and saints to ashes," suggesting that both the innocent and the virtuous are not spared from the flames of persecution. The rising masses marching to find heretic blood symbolize the collective hysteria and mob mentality that often accompany such witch hunts, where reason and compassion are overshadowed by fear and fanaticism.

The plea "Please don’t leave me" adds a poignant and personal touch to the narrative, revealing the protagonist's vulnerability and desperation. It humanizes the victim, reminding the listener of the real human cost of such persecution. The repeated refrain of "My flesh will feed the demon now" serves as a grim reminder of the inevitable fate that awaits those who are unjustly condemned. Through its powerful lyrics and evocative imagery, "Heretic" by Avenged Sevenfold offers a compelling critique of the destructive nature of persecution and the tragic consequences of allowing fear and ignorance to dictate justice.