Paradigm

Avenged Sevenfold's song 'Paradigm' delves into the complex and often dark themes of human enhancement and the quest for immortality. The lyrics paint a picture of someone who has been struggling for a long time, feeling weak and disconnected from their former self. The idea of engineering the brain and architecting a code to eliminate pain suggests a futuristic or sci-fi approach to overcoming human limitations. This notion is further emphasized by the repeated phrase 'Live forever,' indicating a desire to transcend human mortality.

As the song progresses, the protagonist describes themselves as 'way up, a god in size,' having shed their human side and become something beyond mortal reach. This transformation brings about a sense of power and invincibility, but it also raises questions about identity and humanity. The protagonist reflects on whether they have lost the 'boy inside,' symbolizing their former, more innocent self. This internal conflict is encapsulated in the phrase 'Final paradigm,' suggesting a point of no return in their transformation.

The song also explores the philosophical question of what it means to be a man. The protagonist is urged to think about this deeply, even as they are promised that their fears will disappear forever. However, this promise comes with a cost. The protagonist questions whether their thoughts are still their own and whether something essential has died within them. The imagery of clawing at their skin but feeling nothing inside highlights the emotional and existential void that accompanies their newfound immortality. The song ends on a poignant note, with the protagonist questioning whether they have lost themselves entirely, and whether their father has lost the boy he used to know.