Det Som En Gang Var

Burzum's song 'Det Som En Gang Var' delves into themes of loss, nostalgia, and existential despair. The Norwegian title translates to 'What Once Was,' setting the tone for a reflection on a past that is irretrievably lost. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a time when hope and emotions were palpable, but now, they are gone forever. The imagery of staring through bushes and hearing elven songs and trickling water evokes a sense of longing for a mystical, almost otherworldly past.

The song's melancholic tone is further emphasized by the repeated assertion that what once was is now gone. The mention of blood, longing, and sorrow suggests a deep emotional and possibly violent history that has left a permanent mark. The feelings that once could be touched are now unreachable, indicating a profound sense of emotional numbness or detachment. This could be interpreted as a commentary on the human condition, where the passage of time erodes not just physical entities but also the emotional and spiritual connections that once defined our existence.

The final lines, 'We did not die... We have never lived,' encapsulate the existential despair that permeates the song. It suggests a state of limbo, where the characters are trapped between life and death, unable to fully experience either. This could be seen as a metaphor for a life devoid of meaning or purpose, where the past haunts the present, and the future offers no solace. Burzum, known for its atmospheric and often dark music, uses these themes to create a hauntingly beautiful yet deeply unsettling piece that resonates with anyone who has ever felt the weight of lost time and unfulfilled dreams.