Born Again
Black Sabbath
The Rebirth of the Self in Black Sabbath's 'Born Again'
Black Sabbath's 'Born Again' delves into themes of personal transformation and the struggle against conformity and control. The lyrics, rich with imagery, suggest a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. The song begins with a voyeuristic perspective, as if someone is peering into the depths of the singer's soul, witnessing the remnants of past glories and passions. This sets a tone of introspection and the sense of a past that's both haunting and influential.
As the song progresses, it speaks to a 'mighty wall of power' that awaits in the gloom, hinting at the untapped potential within the individual. The 'forgotten champions' and 'mutant gods' symbolize the external forces and societal pressures that attempt to shape and control individuals, making them conform to a standard. The call to be 'born again' is a rallying cry for personal rebirth, to break free from these constraints and to assert one's own identity and power.
The latter part of the song shifts to a more direct address, challenging the listener to become a 'hunter' and to actively pursue their true desires. It's a message of taking control of one's destiny and rejecting the passive, 'plastic' existence that society often imposes. The repeated phrase 'born again' encapsulates the transformative journey the song advocates, encouraging listeners to shed their old selves and embrace a new, more authentic life.