Cassandra

The song "Cassandra" by Theatre of Tragedy delves into the mythological tale of Cassandra, a prophetess in Greek mythology who was cursed to utter true prophecies that were never believed. The lyrics are rich with archaic language and metaphors, painting a vivid picture of Cassandra's tragic relationship with Apollo, the god who bestowed upon her the gift of prophecy.

The narrative in the song explores the dynamics of power and belief between Cassandra and Apollo. Cassandra rejects Apollo's advances, leading to his curse that her prophecies, despite being true, will always be dismissed. The lyrics "He gave to her, yet tenfold claim'd in return" reflect the imbalance in their relationship, highlighting how Apollo's gift came with strings attached, a demand for her affection which she could not reciprocate. The repeated lines "Prophetess or fond? Tho' her parle of truth" question the perception of Cassandra's sanity and the authenticity of her prophecies, underscoring her isolation and the skepticism she faces.

The song also touches on themes of unrequited love and the consequences of spurned affection. Apollo's perspective is hinted at with lines like "He left her ne'er without his heart," suggesting that despite the curse, his feelings remained. Cassandra's plight is portrayed not just as a result of divine whim but as a deeply human story of love, power, and the pain of being unheard. Theatre of Tragedy uses their gothic metal style to give these ancient themes a modern, emotional resonance, making Cassandra's story both timeless and immediate.