Ave Maria

Tarja's rendition of 'Ave Maria' is a hauntingly beautiful invocation that blends classical and operatic elements to create a deeply spiritual experience. The lyrics, originally penned in German, are a prayer to the Virgin Mary, asking for her intercession and protection. The song opens with a plea from a 'mild virgin' to hear the prayers of another virgin, highlighting a sense of purity and innocence. The imagery of a 'starr and wild' rock from which the prayer ascends suggests a harsh and unforgiving world, yet the prayer offers a sense of hope and solace.

The second verse continues this theme of seeking refuge and comfort. The 'unbefleckt' (immaculate) Virgin Mary is asked to cover the supplicants with her protection, making even the hardest rock seem soft. This verse introduces a sense of transformation through divine intervention, where the harshness of reality is softened by spiritual grace. The mention of 'Rosendüfte' (rose scents) in a 'dumpfen Felsenkluft' (dull rock crevice) further emphasizes this transformation, turning a bleak environment into one filled with beauty and hope.

In the final verse, the plea becomes more urgent and encompassing. The 'reine Magd' (pure maid) is invoked to drive away the demons of earth and air with her gaze. This verse speaks to the power of faith and divine protection against evil forces. The supplicants express their willingness to accept their fate, comforted by the holy solace that the Virgin Mary provides. The repeated invocation of 'Ave Maria' throughout the song serves as a mantra, reinforcing the themes of purity, protection, and divine grace.