Painters Of The Tempest (part II): Triptych Lux

Ne Obliviscaris' 'Painters Of The Tempest (part II): Triptych Lux' is a complex and evocative piece that delves into themes of creation, destruction, and the cyclical nature of existence. The song opens with a dark herald, a bringer of light, symbolizing a paradoxical figure who brings both enlightenment and destruction. This duality is a recurring theme throughout the song, as the 'painters of the tempest' use their 'red hands' to create a world that is both beautiful and chaotic.

The lyrics reference famous painters like Bruegel and Bosch, known for their intricate and often surreal depictions of heaven and hell. These references serve to underscore the song's exploration of the human condition, where beauty and horror coexist. The 'canvas' of the world is painted with the 'bone palette,' suggesting that creation is inherently tied to destruction. The angels falling into the canvas symbolize the loss of innocence and the inevitable descent into chaos.

As the song progresses, it shifts focus to the children, who represent hope and the potential for a new beginning. Despite the bleakness of their surroundings, they 'sing with open minds' and 'see with open minds,' suggesting that they are the key to a brighter future. The 'stained glass womb' symbolizes a fragile yet beautiful space where new life and ideas can flourish. The song ends on a somewhat hopeful note, with the children as the 'painters' who have the power to change the world, despite the 'wasteland' they inherit.

'Painters Of The Tempest (part II): Triptych Lux' is a rich tapestry of imagery and emotion, blending themes of creation, destruction, and rebirth. It challenges the listener to reflect on the cyclical nature of life and the role we all play as creators and destroyers in our own right.