Cold Song

Klaus Nomi's 'Cold Song' is a haunting and evocative piece that delves into themes of resurrection, suffering, and the desire for release. The lyrics, originally from the opera 'King Arthur' by Henry Purcell, are given new life through Nomi's unique and otherworldly vocal performance. The song begins with a powerful invocation, questioning the force that has brought the speaker back from the depths of an icy slumber. This force is described as having made the speaker rise 'unwillingly and slow,' suggesting a reluctance and a sense of being compelled against their will.

The imagery of 'beds of everlasting snow' paints a picture of a cold, eternal rest, from which the speaker has been disturbed. The speaker's description of themselves as 'stiff and wondrous old' further emphasizes their unsuitability for the harsh, bitter cold they now face. This could be interpreted as a metaphor for feeling out of place or unprepared for the challenges of life, or perhaps a commentary on the inevitability of aging and the accompanying frailties.

As the song progresses, the speaker's physical struggle becomes more apparent. They can 'scarcely move or draw [their] breath,' highlighting the intense discomfort and suffering they are experiencing. The repeated plea to 'let me freeze again to death' is a poignant cry for release from this torment. It suggests a longing for the peace and stillness of death, rather than the painful existence they are currently enduring. Nomi's delivery of these lines, with his distinctive countertenor voice, adds an additional layer of emotional depth and urgency to the song, making it a powerful and unforgettable piece.