Non Serviam

Rotting Christ's song 'Non Serviam' is a powerful declaration of defiance and rebellion. The title itself, which translates from Latin to 'I will not serve,' sets the tone for the entire piece. The lyrics depict a figure who refuses to submit to any form of authority, whether divine or earthly. This figure is described as a 'notorious king' who is 'unblessed & isolated,' suggesting a fallen angel or a rebellious leader who has chosen to stand alone against the forces that seek to control him.

The imagery in the song is rich with metaphors and dark, evocative language. Phrases like 'burning wooden icons' and 'in the candleshadow' evoke a sense of sacrilege and hidden defiance. The figure's 'subterranean ambitions' and the description of him as someone who 'never submit[s]' further emphasize his unyielding nature. The repeated phrase 'Non serviam' serves as a mantra of resistance, a refusal to bow down to any higher power.

The song also delves into themes of immortality and eternal struggle. Lines like 'Immortalis sum' (I am immortal) and 'Anni non vexaverunt me' (The years have not troubled me) suggest a timeless battle against tyranny. The figure's voice is described as echoing in eternity, indicating that this struggle is not just a momentary act of rebellion but an everlasting stance. The Latin phrases add a layer of gravitas and historical weight to the song, connecting the modern act of defiance to a long tradition of resistance against oppression.