Locked Away
The Gathering
The Tyranny of Fear: Analyzing 'Locked Away' by The Gathering
The song 'Locked Away' by The Gathering delves into the dark themes of control, fear, and the abuse of power. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a tyrant who derives pleasure from exerting control over others, locking them away both physically and metaphorically. The opening lines, 'No sense at all, do what you want, you will obey,' set the tone for a narrative where the oppressor imposes their will without reason, driven by a need to dominate and instill fear.
The chorus, 'Locked away, just so what you'll be scared of me,' reveals the true motive behind the tyrant's actions. The oppressor's power is a facade, a means to hide their own insecurities and fears. This is further emphasized in the lines, 'Behind my power, I will hide all my fears.' The song suggests that the need to control others stems from a deep-seated fear within the oppressor, who uses their authority as a shield to protect themselves from their own vulnerabilities.
The lyrics also touch on the theme of dishonesty, both with others and oneself. The lines, 'Right now you are punished for absolutely nothing, and I feel so good because once more I don't have to be honest with myself,' highlight the oppressor's self-deception. By punishing others without cause, the tyrant avoids confronting their own flaws and insecurities. The song's haunting melody and powerful lyrics create a chilling portrayal of the destructive cycle of fear and control, making 'Locked Away' a poignant commentary on the darker aspects of human nature.