Crown

Samael's song 'Crown' delves deep into the themes of suffering, isolation, and the paradoxical nature of power and pain. The lyrics open with a stark image of the eyes as mirrors of the soul, reflecting scorn, apathy, and hatred. This sets the tone for a narrative that explores the internal world of the speaker, a world characterized by emotional desolation and a profound sense of alienation. The mirror metaphor is extended to describe a protective yet stifling barrier around the heart, symbolizing the speaker's emotional detachment and self-imposed isolation.

The song's central metaphor, 'A crown of thorns is still a crown,' encapsulates the idea that suffering and power are intertwined. The speaker sees themselves as a king in a kingdom of suffering, having painstakingly descended into pain to reach this stage. This descent is not just a fall but a deliberate journey into self-torture and numbness, where the thorn in the flesh serves as a reminder of their existence. The crown of thorns, a symbol of both suffering and royalty, suggests that there is a form of twisted glory in enduring and embracing pain.

As the song progresses, the speaker reveals a sense of triumph in their humiliation and suffering. They speak of a throne to be taken and a crown to win, indicating that their endurance of pain has become a source of power and identity. The final lines paint a picture of a person who has lost their former self, emotions, and even the ability to smile, yet remains standing like a tree awaiting lightning. This imagery underscores the theme of resilience amidst desolation, suggesting that even in the depths of suffering, there is a form of strength and endurance that can be found.