Gods Of War

Def Leppard's song "Gods Of War" is a powerful critique of the senselessness and devastation brought about by war. The lyrics convey a deep sense of despair and hopelessness, as the narrator feels overwhelmed by the lack of love and the difficulty of finding meaning in a world consumed by conflict. The imagery of a "nightmare machine" and a "countdown to zero" suggests an impending doom, where there are no heroes and nothing to be gained from the violence.

The chorus, with its repeated lines "Here it comes, here comes the night," emphasizes the inevitability of destruction and the darkness that war brings. The song questions the purpose of fighting, asking, "What the hell we fightin' for?" This rhetorical question underscores the futility and absurdity of war, as the narrator declares their refusal to participate in the violence any longer. The line "Put away that gun" is a direct plea for peace and a rejection of the cycle of violence.

Def Leppard's musical style, characterized by powerful guitar riffs and anthemic choruses, amplifies the emotional weight of the lyrics. The song's message is clear: war is a destructive force that brings nothing but suffering and loss. By calling out the "gods of war," the band challenges the glorification of conflict and urges listeners to reconsider the true cost of violence. The song serves as a poignant reminder of the need for peace and the importance of questioning the motives behind war.