This Sickness Withered My Heart

Forgotten Tomb's 'This Sickness Withered My Heart' delves deep into the themes of inner turmoil, self-destruction, and the loss of humanity. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a soul consumed by darkness, where the protagonist grapples with the malevolent forces that have taken root within. The imagery of a 'burial ground of my soul' and 'malevolent fog' suggests a pervasive and inescapable corruption, symbolizing the protagonist's descent into despair and moral decay.

The lyrics further explore the protagonist's internal struggle, describing consciousness as bleeding 'like a gaping wound' and hope as a 'weak ghost' being strangled. This powerful metaphor highlights the overwhelming sense of hopelessness and the protagonist's recognition of their transformation into a 'despicable creature of scorn.' The act of 'murdering what was left untainted within' signifies a complete abandonment of any remaining purity or goodness, likening the process to a snake shedding its skin—an irreversible change.

As the song progresses, the protagonist's mental state deteriorates further, with 'malignancy's clutch' twisting their insides and their mind becoming a 'deserted floor' haunted by 'spectres of smiles.' This haunting imagery conveys a sense of isolation and the torment of being haunted by happier memories. The protagonist's will to harm and the welcoming of dark voices reflect a complete surrender to the darkness within, culminating in the realization that 'this sickness withered my heart' and now defines their very being. The song serves as a poignant exploration of the destructive power of inner demons and the irreversible impact they can have on one's identity.