Word To The Wise

The song 'Word To The Wise' from the musical Hadestown, performed by the Hadestown Cast, delves into the complex and often paradoxical nature of decision-making, especially when one is in a position of power. The narrative unfolds with Hermes recounting a moment where Orpheus, the poor boy, asks Hades, the king, for permission to leave. Hades' indecisive response, 'I don't know,' sets the stage for the Fates to weigh in on the gravity of the situation.

The Fates, representing the inevitability of destiny, highlight the precarious position Hades finds himself in. They emphasize that no matter what decision he makes, there will be significant consequences. If Hades denies Orpheus' request, he risks being seen as heartless and creating a martyr. Conversely, if he grants the request, he appears weak and risks losing control over his domain. This 'damned if you do, damned if you don't' scenario underscores the theme of unavoidable consequences and the burden of leadership.

The Fates' advice, 'Men are fools... Give them the rope and they'll hang themselves,' serves as a cynical commentary on human nature. It suggests that people, when given freedom, often make choices that lead to their downfall. This line encapsulates the fatalistic tone of the song, implying that regardless of Hades' decision, the outcome may be disastrous. The song, therefore, not only explores the personal dilemma of Hades but also offers a broader reflection on the human condition and the often tragic nature of free will.