The Greatest Fear

Parkway Drive's song 'The Greatest Fear' delves into the profound and often unsettling themes of mortality, the unknown, and the omnipresence of death. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a figure referred to as the 'king of nevermore,' a metaphorical representation of death or an omnipotent force that governs the end of life. This figure is described as the 'Master of the darkness' and 'Reaper in the fall,' emphasizing its control over the inevitable cycle of life and death. The repeated references to 'nevermore' evoke a sense of finality and the eternal nature of death, reminiscent of Edgar Allan Poe's famous poem 'The Raven,' where 'nevermore' signifies an unending state of despair and loss.

The song's lyrics also explore the idea of destiny and the inescapable nature of death. Phrases like 'The bells will ring, Virtue extolled, Behold, destiny, thy guidance' suggest that death is a predetermined part of life, a destiny that guides all beings. The 'Master of dominion' is depicted as a shadowy figure whose presence is always felt but rarely acknowledged, symbolizing how death is an ever-present reality that people often avoid discussing. This figure's 'arms are always open,' indicating that death is an inevitable embrace that awaits everyone, regardless of their actions or beliefs.

Furthermore, 'The Greatest Fear' touches on the concept of seeking truth and understanding beyond the physical realm. The lyrics mention a 'Shepherd in the ether' and 'The answers that you seek lie just beyond his open door,' suggesting that there is a deeper, perhaps spiritual, understanding to be gained about life and death. The song concludes with the idea that in death, 'we all sing the hymns of nevermore,' implying a collective acceptance and acknowledgment of this ultimate truth. The recurring phrase 'Dark matters' reinforces the theme of exploring the unknown and the profound impact of death on the human experience.