Zu Asche, Zu Staub

Severija's 'Zu Asche, Zu Staub' is a hauntingly beautiful song that delves into the themes of mortality, time, and the quest for immortality. The title, which translates to 'To Ashes, To Dust,' immediately sets a somber tone, evoking the inevitable decay that comes with the passage of time. The lyrics explore the tension between the fleeting nature of life and the human desire to transcend it, suggesting that while we are bound to return to dust, there is still hope and wonder to be found until the very end.

The song's imagery is rich with metaphors that deepen its meaning. The 'Ozean der Zeit' (Ocean of Time) and 'ewiges Gesetz' (eternal law) highlight the vast, unchanging nature of time, contrasting sharply with the transient human experience. The recurring line 'Doch noch nicht jetzt' (But not yet) serves as a poignant reminder that while death is inevitable, it is not immediate, and there is still time for miracles and dreams. The metaphor of the 'uhr an deiner wand' (clock on your wall) filled with sand is a powerful representation of life's limited duration, urging the listener to seize the moment and seek eternal connections.

The song also touches on the emotional struggle between 'glück und qual' (happiness and torment), reflecting the duality of human existence. The plea to 'leg deine hand in mein' und lass uns ewig sein' (put your hand in mine and let us be eternal) underscores the longing for lasting bonds and the fear of losing them. The lyrics suggest a readiness to face mortality head-on, with the lines 'erkenne mich, ich bin bereit' (recognize me, I am ready) and 'such mir die unsterblichkeit' (seek me immortality) encapsulating the desire to be remembered and to find a form of eternal life through love and connection.

Severija's musical style, characterized by its melancholic melodies and introspective lyrics, perfectly complements the song's themes. The haunting vocals and atmospheric instrumentation create an immersive experience that invites the listener to reflect on their own mortality and the meaning of life. 'Zu Asche, Zu Staub' is a poignant reminder of the beauty and fragility of existence, urging us to cherish every moment and seek deeper connections with those we love.