Gollum's Song

“Gollum's Song” by Emiliana Torrini is a hauntingly beautiful piece that delves deep into the tragic psyche of Gollum, a character from J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth legendarium. The lyrics poignantly capture Gollum's descent from light into darkness, mirroring his transformation from the once-hobbit-like Sméagol into the tormented creature known as Gollum. The opening lines, “Where once was light, now darkness falls / Where once was love, love is no more,” set the tone for a narrative of loss and despair, reflecting Gollum's internal struggle and the loss of his former self.

The song's chorus, “These tears we cry are falling rain / For all the lies you told us, the hurt, the blame,” speaks to the deep sense of betrayal and pain that Gollum feels. His isolation is palpable, as he laments, “We are lost, we can never go home.” This line underscores the irreversible nature of his transformation and the permanent estrangement from his past life and identity. The repetition of “You are lost, you can never go home” serves as a chilling reminder of his eternal exile.

In the latter part of the song, Gollum's resignation to his fate is evident. “So in the end I'll be what I will be / No loyal friend was ever there for me” highlights his acceptance of his solitary existence and the absence of companionship. The final verses, “Take back the lies, the hurt, the blame / And you will weep when you face the end alone,” suggest a bitter reflection on the consequences of betrayal and the inevitability of facing one's end in solitude. Emiliana Torrini's ethereal voice and the melancholic melody amplify the song's themes of loss, betrayal, and isolation, making “Gollum's Song” a poignant exploration of a character's tragic fall from grace.