Crystal Mountain

The song 'Crystal Mountain' by the band Death delves into the themes of blind faith, dogmatism, and the dangers of religious extremism. The lyrics, penned by the late Chuck Schuldiner, are a critique of how religion can be manipulated to justify personal biases and exert control over others. The 'blind faith' and 'self-induced fantasy' mentioned in the song suggest a criticism of how some individuals or institutions may use religion to validate their own agendas, rather than seeking a true spiritual experience.

The chorus, with its reference to 'crystal mountain' where 'evil takes its form' and 'commandments are reborn,' could be interpreted as a metaphor for the rigid and often distorted interpretations of religious teachings that can lead to harm and oppression. The 'crystal mountain' itself may symbolize a seemingly beautiful but ultimately cold and unyielding set of dogmas that people are forced to adhere to. The imagery of traps and the 'cross-turned dagger' further emphasizes the idea of religion being used as a weapon to control and inflict pain on those who do not conform.

The song also touches on the concept of personal responsibility and the importance of questioning authority. The line 'Shatter the myth, don't cut yourself on your words against dreams made of steel' encourages listeners to break free from the illusions and deceptions that may be imposed upon them. It's a call to think critically and to value one's own perceptions and beliefs over those that are handed down without question. Death, known for their pioneering role in the development of death metal, often incorporated complex themes and philosophical questions into their music, and 'Crystal Mountain' is a prime example of their intellectual approach to the genre.