Terrible Certainty
Kreator
Facing the Unstoppable: The Dread of 'Terrible Certainty'
Kreator's song 'Terrible Certainty' delves into the harrowing experience of facing an unstoppable and deadly plague. The lyrics paint a grim picture of a contagious disease that leaves its victims with no hope of a cure. The opening lines, 'Die! Slowly you're dying / From this contagious disease,' immediately set a tone of despair and inevitability. The song captures the helplessness and hopelessness of those afflicted, emphasizing that once infected, 'your passing is a sure thing.' This sense of doom is further highlighted by the phrase 'terrible certainty,' which underscores the inescapable fate awaiting the victims.
The song also explores the broader impact of the plague on society. The lyrics mention that the virus is 'contracted by blood' and can affect anyone, regardless of their status or background. This indiscriminate nature of the disease is emphasized with lines like 'The poor, the rich - Indiscriminate / Soon they'll all end in the grave.' By highlighting that the plague spares no one, Kreator underscores the universal vulnerability of humanity in the face of such a catastrophe. The song's reference to 'so many civilizations before' suggests a historical context, reminding listeners that plagues have devastated societies throughout history.
In addition to the physical suffering, 'Terrible Certainty' touches on the psychological torment of living with the knowledge of an impending death. The lyrics describe the victims' thoughts as 'empty and hopeless,' and the only solace they find is in praying. This spiritual aspect adds another layer to the song, reflecting the desperation and search for meaning in the face of an uncontrollable disaster. Kreator's intense and aggressive musical style complements the dark and urgent themes of the lyrics, creating a powerful and haunting portrayal of a world gripped by a deadly plague.