The Writ

Black Sabbath's song 'The Writ' is a powerful expression of betrayal, disillusionment, and the emotional turmoil that follows. The lyrics convey a deep sense of personal anguish and frustration, likely directed at someone who has caused significant harm. The opening lines, 'The way I feel is the way I am / I wish I'd walked before I started to run to you,' suggest a regret for rushing into a relationship or situation that has led to pain and disappointment.

The song's narrative seems to address a figure who has changed drastically over time, possibly a former friend or business associate. Lines like 'Are you metal, are you man? / You've changed in life since you began' and 'You bought and sold me with your lying words' indicate a sense of betrayal and manipulation. The imagery of 'vultures sucking gold from you' and 'ladies digging gold from you' further emphasizes the theme of exploitation and the hollow pursuit of material wealth.

The lyrics also touch on themes of identity and self-worth. The protagonist questions the integrity and humanity of the person they are addressing, asking, 'Are you satan, are you man?' This line, along with 'You are nonentity you have no destiny / You are a victim of a thing unknown,' suggests a deep existential crisis and a loss of direction. The song concludes with a glimmer of hope, despite the overwhelming sense of despair: 'But everything is gonna work out fine / If it don't I think I'll lose my mind.' This ending reflects a desperate hope for resolution and peace, even in the face of profound disillusionment.