Crionics

Slayer's song 'Crionics' delves into the chilling concept of cryonics, the practice of preserving individuals at extremely low temperatures with the hope of future revival. The lyrics paint a haunting picture of a person trapped in a state of 'perpetual sleep,' watched over by unseen eyes. This state of suspended animation is depicted as a deceptive dream, where the individual's future hinges on a 'mindless dream.' The song suggests a sense of betrayal and isolation, as the protagonist has 'fallen from promises' and is left to take risks alone. The 'masterful science' that freezes both mind and soul is portrayed as a double-edged sword, offering a glimmer of hope while simultaneously stripping away humanity.

The second verse intensifies the sense of dread, as the 'wretched dream' of cryonics becomes a reality. The human race faces the prospect of being 'crystallized,' a metaphor for being frozen and preserved. The lyrics question the morality and efficacy of this scientific endeavor, pondering whether it is a 'cure or a painless death.' The protagonist's resistance against this fate is palpable, as they vow to fight until the end is near. The mention of 'doctors, lawyers, and G-men' living in fear adds a layer of societal critique, suggesting that even those in power are not immune to the existential dread brought on by cryonics.

The song concludes with a glimmer of hope, albeit a distant one. The protagonist clings to the hope of a cure that will defeat their 'invincible foe,' which could be interpreted as death itself. This final line encapsulates the central tension of the song: the struggle between hope and despair, life and death, and the ethical quandaries posed by advanced scientific practices. Slayer's 'Crionics' is a thought-provoking exploration of the human desire to conquer mortality and the potential consequences of such ambitions.