Egypt (The Chains Are On)

Dio's 'Egypt (The Chains Are On)' is a powerful and evocative song that delves into themes of oppression, lost glory, and the yearning for freedom. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a mythical land, once filled with magic and prosperity, now shrouded in darkness and despair. The repeated imagery of 'chains' symbolizes the loss of freedom and the heavy burden of subjugation that the inhabitants of this land endure.

The song opens with a reference to a 'land of the lost horizon,' where a queen lies 'dark and cold.' This sets the stage for a tale of a fallen kingdom, once thriving with 'milk and honey' and strong magic. However, the arrival of 'strange ones' marks the beginning of the end, as the people realize that their freedom has been taken away. The chains, both literal and metaphorical, represent the loss of autonomy and the imposition of external control.

As the song progresses, the sense of hopelessness deepens. The 'land of no tomorrow' is a place where people pray for the end of each day, their lives slowly wasting away. Despite the whispers of the golden sea promising freedom, the chains remain. The imagery of walking on water and flying through the sky, with 'rainbows in their eyes,' suggests a longing for transcendence and liberation. Yet, the refrain 'the chains were on' serves as a stark reminder of the inescapable reality of their bondage.

Dio's powerful vocals and the haunting melody amplify the song's themes, creating an atmosphere of both melancholy and defiance. 'Egypt (The Chains Are On)' is a poignant reflection on the loss of freedom and the enduring human spirit's desire to break free from oppression, even in the face of overwhelming odds.