War Pigs

Black Sabbath's 'War Pigs' is a powerful protest song that delves into the horrors of war and the corruption of those who orchestrate it. The song opens with a stark image of 'Generals gathered in their masses,' likening them to 'witches at black masses,' immediately setting a tone of dark ritual and evil intent. The lyrics suggest that these leaders are plotting destruction with no regard for human life, as they are compared to 'sorcerers of death's construction.' The imagery of fields filled with burning bodies paints a grim picture of the consequences of their actions, highlighting the senseless violence and suffering caused by war.

The second verse shifts focus to politicians, accusing them of cowardice and hypocrisy. They are depicted as hiding away, having initiated conflicts without the intention of fighting themselves, instead sending the poor to die in their stead. This critique of the ruling class is a common theme in anti-war songs, emphasizing the disparity between those who make decisions and those who pay the ultimate price. The song warns that the time will come when these 'power minds' will be held accountable for their actions, suggesting a reversal of fortunes where the oppressed will rise and the oppressors will face judgment.

The final verse envisions a world where the 'war pigs,' or warmongers, no longer have power. The 'Hand of God' has intervened, signaling an apocalyptic reckoning. The 'Day of Judgment' has arrived, and those who have sinned are now begging for mercy. The song closes with the chilling image of Satan laughing as he spreads his wings, implying that the warmongers have ultimately played into the hands of evil. 'War Pigs' serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of war and the moral corruption of those who perpetuate it, wrapped in the heavy metal sound that Black Sabbath pioneered.