Return To Hangar

Megadeth's song "Return To Hangar" delves into themes of abandonment, decay, and the haunting consequences of hidden truths. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of an empty fortress, once a symbol of might and pride, now reduced to a wreck due to neglect and cowardice. The imagery of the fortress being 'ate alive by oxidation' suggests a slow, inevitable decay, mirroring the downfall of something once great. This could be interpreted as a metaphor for the consequences of neglecting responsibilities or the inevitable decline of empires and institutions when they are not maintained or defended with integrity.

The reference to Hangar 18, a recurring theme in Megadeth's discography, adds a layer of mystery and conspiracy. Hangar 18 is often associated with UFO lore and government cover-ups, suggesting that the song touches on themes of hidden knowledge and the consequences of uncovering too much. The line 'Possibly I've seen too much' implies a burden of knowledge that is too heavy to bear, hinting at the dangers of uncovering secrets that were meant to stay hidden. The mention of 'foreign life forms' resurrecting and the ironic statement that 'military intelligence is still two words that can't make sense' further emphasize the chaos and confusion that arise from these hidden truths.

The song also explores the idea of justice and retribution, with the guilty paying the ultimate price. The imagery of those responsible being 'suspended by their broken necks' is stark and brutal, suggesting a form of poetic justice for their cowardice and failures. The fact that 'no one survived to tell the story' adds to the eerie, haunting atmosphere of the song, leaving the listener with a sense of unresolved tension and mystery. Through its powerful lyrics and dark themes, "Return To Hangar" invites listeners to reflect on the consequences of hidden truths, the decay of once-great institutions, and the heavy burden of knowledge.