Lullaby Of Woe

“Lullaby Of Woe” by Marcin Przybyłowicz is a haunting and evocative song that delves into themes of fear, folklore, and the eerie presence of the witcher. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a night filled with unsettling quietness, where nature itself seems to hold its breath. Wolves sleep, bats sway, and birds fall silent, creating an atmosphere of suspense and unease. Amidst this eerie calm, one soul remains awake, gripped by anxiety and fear, not of supernatural creatures like ghouls, hags, and wraiths, but of the witcher—a figure both feared and revered in folklore.

The song addresses a character named Polly, urging her to sleep and not to tremble alone. The witcher, described as heartless and cold, is a mercenary figure paid in gold to deal with supernatural threats. However, his presence brings not just protection but also a deep sense of dread and sorrow. The repeated imagery of the witcher coming and going, leaving behind only heartache and woe, underscores the duality of his role as both a protector and a harbinger of despair.

The final verses take a darker turn, with the witcher being depicted as a menacing figure who will chop, slice, and consume his victims. This stark imagery serves to heighten the sense of fear and foreboding that permeates the song. The lullaby, traditionally a soothing and comforting song, is subverted here to become a chilling narrative that reflects the darker aspects of folklore and the human psyche. Through its evocative lyrics and haunting melody, “Lullaby Of Woe” captures the essence of fear, the unknown, and the complex nature of the witcher’s role in folklore.