Forget Not
Ne Obliviscaris
Eternal Echoes: A Journey Through Memory and Mortality
Ne Obliviscaris' song "Forget Not" is a haunting exploration of memory, mortality, and the enduring legacy of those who have passed away. The title itself, which translates to "forget not" in Latin, sets the tone for a piece that is deeply reflective and reverent. The lyrics are rich with imagery and metaphors, painting a vivid picture of the dead and their lasting impact on the living. The recurring phrase "as the dead sigh" evokes a sense of lingering presence, suggesting that the deceased continue to influence the world of the living in subtle, almost ghostly ways.
The song's narrative takes the listener on a journey through various symbolic landscapes, such as the "waters beneath the willow drapery" and the "starlit waters" where "dreamscapes are golden." These settings serve as metaphors for the passage from life to death and the mysterious realms that lie beyond. The mention of the "boatman" and "two penny moons" alludes to the ancient Greek myth of Charon, the ferryman who transports souls across the river Styx, further emphasizing the theme of transition and the afterlife.
At its core, "Forget Not" is a tribute to the "noble souls that were and will be." The song urges listeners to remember and honor those who have passed, encapsulated in the repeated exhortation to "forget not." This call to remembrance is not just about keeping the memory of the dead alive but also about recognizing the impact they had on the world and the lessons they left behind. The song's closing lines, "Death echoes, forget not," serve as a poignant reminder that while death is inevitable, the influence of those who have passed continues to resonate through time.