Exercises In Futility V

Mgla's song 'Exercises In Futility V' delves deep into the dark recesses of human nature and societal constructs. The lyrics are a grim ode to the creators of instruments of suffering and death, such as tailors, woodworkers, forgers, and stone cutters. These artisans are ironically 'blessed' for their roles in crafting masks, crosses, gallows, spikes, and graves. This blessing is a bitter acknowledgment of their contributions to human misery, suggesting that these tools are essential to the human condition and its inherent darkness.

The song then shifts focus to internal sources of suffering, such as misery, filth, discord, horror, lies, guilt, fear, woe, and betrayal. These elements are described as not needing any external source, as they are born from within. This introspective turn highlights the idea that the most profound suffering is self-generated, growing into an 'invincible stronghold' adorned with death. The imagery of a 'suit of shining armour' replacing the skin and 'calligraphed sins' as a coat of arms suggests that these internal afflictions become a part of one's identity, a protective yet damning facade.

The final word, 'Hollow,' encapsulates the emptiness that remains after one is consumed by these internal and external sources of suffering. Mgla's music, known for its bleak and nihilistic themes, uses this song to explore the futility of human endeavors and the inescapable nature of suffering. The band's black metal style, characterized by its raw and atmospheric sound, complements the dark and introspective lyrics, creating a powerful and haunting experience for the listener.