Children
Orphaned Land
The Cry of the Orphaned Soul: A Reflection on Loss and Despair
Orphaned Land's song 'Children' delves deep into the emotional turmoil and existential dread experienced by a child who feels abandoned and lost. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of isolation and despair, as the protagonist grapples with the loss of everything they once knew. The opening lines, 'I’m alone in here / All I know is gone,' set the tone for a narrative steeped in sorrow and uncertainty about the future. The child questions their fate, wondering if they are destined to become 'another orphaned child' and 'another victim full of sorrow,' highlighting a sense of inevitability and helplessness.
The song also serves as a poignant critique of societal and parental failures. The lines 'How can we live with this horror that we bring to this world?' and 'What is it that blinds us to the error of our ways?' suggest a broader commentary on the collective responsibility for the suffering of the innocent. The child’s plea to their parents, 'Mother, why have you deserted me? / Father, why must we all struggle to survive?' underscores the personal betrayal felt by those who are supposed to provide care and protection. This emotional plea is not just a cry for help but also a condemnation of a world where 'lives are bought and sold.'
Orphaned Land, known for their fusion of metal with Middle Eastern musical elements, often tackle themes of social justice, spirituality, and human suffering. 'Children' is no exception, as it combines haunting melodies with powerful lyrics to evoke a sense of urgency and empathy. The song challenges listeners to reflect on the impact of their actions and the societal structures that perpetuate suffering. It’s a call to acknowledge and address the pain of the most vulnerable among us, urging a collective awakening to the 'error of our ways.'