Siege Tower

Human Fortress's song 'Siege Tower' is a vivid portrayal of medieval warfare, capturing the intensity and brutality of a siege. The lyrics describe a scene where a formidable castle stands near the sea, its ancient walls prepared to withstand an attack. The imagery of 'black oil hath come to boil' and 'archers are ready to bloody the soil' sets a grim tone, emphasizing the readiness for battle and the inevitable bloodshed. This setting is not just a physical battleground but also a metaphor for the relentless pursuit of power and dominance.

The protagonist of the song is a warrior whose resolve is unshaken by the enemy's presence. Lines like 'My fighting hands ain't numb by enemy breath' and 'My warfare has to withstand' highlight the determination and resilience required in such a dire situation. The bridge, 'There is nothing to fear but fear itself,' echoes a famous quote by Franklin D. Roosevelt, suggesting that the greatest obstacle is often one's own fear. This adds a layer of psychological warfare to the physical battle, underscoring the mental fortitude needed to succeed.

The chorus, 'Siege tower raised high - My castle of greed raised as high as the sky,' reveals the underlying motivation of greed and ambition. The siege tower, a medieval war machine, symbolizes the lengths to which one will go to achieve their goals. The mention of 'offensive archers prepared now to die' and 'soldiers are killed with desire' further illustrates the high stakes and the willingness to sacrifice lives for victory. The song concludes with a somber reflection on the inevitability of death in war, as the minstrel sings 'death's song' for either the protagonist or their enemy, highlighting the tragic and often futile nature of such conflicts.