The Lament For The Rohirrim

Clamavi De Profundis' song, 'The Lament For The Rohirrim,' is a haunting and evocative piece that delves into themes of loss, nostalgia, and the passage of time. The lyrics, inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien's work, paint a vivid picture of a once-glorious past that has faded into memory. The repeated questioning of 'Where now the horse and the rider?' and 'Where is the horn that was blowing?' underscores a deep sense of longing for a time when the world was filled with life, vigor, and heroism.

The imagery in the song is rich and poignant, with references to the 'helm and the hauberk' and 'the bright hair flowing,' evoking the grandeur and beauty of the past. The mention of 'the hand on the harpstring' and 'the red fire glowing' adds a layer of warmth and intimacy, suggesting personal memories and moments of joy that have been lost. The transition from 'spring and the harvest' to the present desolation highlights the inevitable cycle of life and the transient nature of human achievements.

The metaphorical language, such as 'They have passed like rain on the mountain' and 'Like a wind in the meadow,' emphasizes the fleeting nature of time and the ephemeral quality of human existence. The final lines, 'Who shall gather the smoke of the dead wood burning or behold the flowing years from the sea returning?' pose a poignant question about the possibility of reclaiming the past or reversing the relentless march of time. This lamentation serves as a powerful reminder of the impermanence of life and the enduring impact of history and memory on our present and future.