To Walk The Ashes Of Dead Empires

Caladan Brood's song 'To Walk The Ashes Of Dead Empires' is a haunting and evocative exploration of the aftermath of cataclysmic battles and the cyclical nature of empires. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world ravaged by war, where the remnants of once-great civilizations lie in ruins. The imagery of 'burning fires' and 'shattered mountains' sets the stage for a landscape devastated by conflict, where the 'ashes of gods' and 'cinereous rain' symbolize the downfall of divine and mortal powers alike.

The song delves into the emotional and spiritual toll of such destruction. The 'mortal cries of perishing thralls' and 'beleaguered spirit, dying pride' reflect the human cost of these epic battles. The 'dawn of sorrow' and 'lamenter’s shrine' suggest a period of mourning and reflection, where the survivors must come to terms with the loss and devastation. The repeated imagery of 'blood-stained stone' and 'rivers of blood' underscores the brutality and futility of war, while the 'endless night sky' and 'chaos inside' evoke a sense of existential despair and confusion.

As the song progresses, it shifts from the immediate aftermath of battle to a broader contemplation of the passage of time and the legacy of fallen empires. The 'golden dawn' that 'dethrones the night' signifies a new beginning, but one that is haunted by the memories of past conflicts. The 'empty halls' and 'dust-strewn cobblestones' evoke a sense of abandonment and decay, while the 'icy barrows' and 'forgotten swords' hint at the enduring presence of history. The final lines, 'deeds heroic and deeds unknown, carved upon the empty throne,' suggest that the stories of these fallen empires will live on, even as the physical remnants fade away.