Harakiri

Serj Tankian's song 'Harakiri' delves into the profound themes of life, death, and the cyclical nature of existence. The title itself, 'Harakiri,' refers to the Japanese ritual suicide, symbolizing a deliberate end to life, often to preserve honor. This sets the tone for the song's exploration of mortality and the inevitability of death.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of various creatures and their fates, such as 'day birds' and 'drum fish,' which metaphorically represent humanity and its struggles. The 'day birds' flying against the sky symbolize the human spirit's defiance and resilience, while the 'drum fish' committing harakiri and the 'blackbirds' falling from the sky illustrate the tragic and often self-destructive tendencies within nature and humanity. These images evoke a sense of inevitability and the natural order of life and death.

Tankian also critiques modern society, referring to 'our statues' and 'the soaring edifice of our times,' suggesting that future generations will view our history as a series of crimes against wisdom and nature. This reflects a deep concern for the environment and the consequences of human actions. The repeated refrain, 'They crowned the Sun, but I believe that they are free,' suggests a belief in liberation through death, a return to a natural state, and a cleansing by the Sun, which can be seen as a metaphor for enlightenment or a higher power.

Ultimately, 'Harakiri' is a poignant reflection on the transient nature of life, the impact of human actions on the world, and the hope for freedom and purification through the cycles of life and death. Tankian's powerful imagery and thought-provoking lyrics invite listeners to contemplate their place in the world and the legacy they leave behind.