Suffocation

Morbid Angel's 'Suffocation' delves into themes of judgment, purification, and the cyclical nature of human suffering. The song opens with a scornful tone, mocking the tragedies and disrespect that permeate human existence. The reference to 'goats under rule of father time' and 'leaches pass judgment' suggests a world where the weak are controlled and judged by their peers, only to face their demise when they lose their way. This sets the stage for a narrative that pays homage to ancient, perhaps dark, deities and rituals, invoking a sense of reverence for the old ways and the inevitable descent into chaos and fire.

The recurring imagery of 'suffocating evil smoke' and 'cauldrons blaze in sanctifying ritual' paints a vivid picture of a world undergoing a harsh purification process. The 'vile crematory' and the burning eyes symbolize the painful yet necessary cleansing of iniquity from the masses. This ritualistic cleansing is not just physical but also spiritual, aiming to rid humanity of its inherent sins and flaws. The song's dark and intense atmosphere is further amplified by the mention of mortals filled with despair, seeking to understand their fate, only to find themselves in a cavernous underworld awaiting their doom.

The chorus, with its repeated invocation of 'suffocation,' underscores the suffocating nature of this cleansing process. The 'dawn of the crucifiers' signifies a new era of judgment and purification, where the old ways are enforced with brutal efficiency. The song's apocalyptic tone is a reflection of the band's signature style, blending death metal's aggressive sound with lyrical themes of darkness, judgment, and the cyclical nature of human suffering. Morbid Angel's 'Suffocation' is a powerful exploration of the darker aspects of human existence, wrapped in a ritualistic and apocalyptic narrative.