500 Letters

Tarja's song '500 Letters' delves into the dark and unsettling world of obsession and the psychological torment it can inflict. The lyrics tell the story of an individual who receives an overwhelming number of letters from a stranger, each one a piece of a disturbing puzzle that gradually reveals the sender's unhealthy fixation. The letters, described as 'weapons' and 'scars no one can see,' symbolize the emotional and mental damage inflicted by this relentless intrusion into the recipient's life.

The song begins with a sense of innocence, likening the initial letters to a 'childish game' and 'lines of poetry.' However, this innocence quickly deteriorates as the letters become a source of paranoia and fear. The shift from innocent admiration to dangerous obsession is palpable, with the lyrics capturing the escalating tension and the recipient's growing sense of entrapment. The repeated questioning of 'Why do you love me? Why do you want to hurt me?' underscores the confusion and helplessness felt by the recipient, who is caught in a web of unwanted attention.

The climax of the song is chilling, revealing the tragic end of the sender, who leaves a final, haunting message: 'Now you won't forget: I'll see you in your dreams.' This line encapsulates the lasting impact of the ordeal, suggesting that the psychological scars will continue to haunt the recipient long after the physical threat is gone. Tarja's powerful vocals and the song's intense instrumentation amplify the emotional weight of the lyrics, creating a haunting and memorable experience for the listener.

'500 Letters' is a poignant exploration of the darker side of human emotions, highlighting the fine line between love and obsession, and the devastating effects of unreciprocated and unwanted attention.