Dying To Meet You

Judas Priest's 'Dying To Meet You' is a powerful and haunting exploration of the brutal realities of war. The song opens with a sense of optimism and adventure, as the protagonist starts their journey 'high on a bird's wing' and 'quite open minded.' However, this initial hope is quickly overshadowed by the grim realities of the battlefield. The lyrics describe the protagonist being led by 'stern faced leaders' who initiate the slaughter with a mere arm raise, highlighting the cold and calculated nature of war.

The song delves into the emotional and psychological toll of combat, as the protagonist witnesses friends dying and experiences the pervasive selfishness that war breeds. The line 'Selfishness breeds in this cesspool of sorrow' poignantly captures the dehumanizing effect of war, where survival often comes at the expense of others. The imagery of 'synchronized watches flash in the sunlight' as soldiers march into battle underscores the mechanical and relentless nature of warfare.

Judas Priest also critiques the glorification of war and the hollow accolades given to soldiers. The lines 'Hero, hero, you have done so well / So sit back and lick your wounds, cause you won't go to hell' sarcastically commend the soldier, pointing out the internal pain and sin that medals and honors cannot erase. The song's raw and unflinching portrayal of war serves as a powerful commentary on the futility and horror of armed conflict, urging listeners to question the true cost of violence and the societal structures that perpetuate it.