In The Forest

Hiroyuki Sawano's song "In The Forest" is a powerful narrative that delves into themes of survival, displacement, and the search for a new beginning. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a group of people who have escaped from Earth following a catastrophic event. The opening lines, "All's quiet in the forest / Grab your shotgun / Shoot in the dark," set a tense and foreboding atmosphere, suggesting that the characters are in a hostile and unfamiliar environment where danger lurks in the shadows.

The song reflects on the journey from Earth to a new place, referred to as "New LA," and the struggles faced along the way. The lyrics, "We had our time on mother earth / All the way to our father's land / Now we're fighting hard in common land," highlight the sense of loss and the need to adapt to a new reality. This journey is described as a "cycle of karma," indicating that the characters believe their current struggles are a result of past actions and that they must endure these hardships to reach a better place, possibly a "promised land" or "wonderland."

The song also touches on personal loss and the impact of separation from loved ones. The lines, "She was standing there in the hangar / The hatch was open then / There's no one there / He was drifting along in the universe / That was the last time I saw his face," evoke a sense of longing and sorrow. Despite these challenges, the characters remain hopeful, seeking strength from their ancestors and each other to persevere. The repeated plea, "Father mother give us strength more more," underscores their reliance on familial bonds and collective resilience to overcome adversity.

"In The Forest" ultimately conveys a message of hope and determination. It speaks to the human spirit's ability to endure and find new beginnings even in the face of overwhelming odds. The song's blend of futuristic and primal imagery creates a compelling narrative that resonates with themes of survival, community, and the quest for a better future.