Like Light To The Flies

Trivium's 'Like Light To The Flies' delves into the human fascination with tragedy and the inherent hypocrisy that often accompanies it. The song opens with a stark observation: 'Behold our beloved revels in tragedy.' This line sets the tone for the entire piece, suggesting that people are drawn to tragic events much like flies are drawn to light. The metaphor of 'light to flies' is powerful, illustrating an almost irresistible attraction to the macabre and the sorrowful.

The lyrics also touch on the theme of hypocrisy, particularly in the lines 'Self-denying abhorrence for bloodshed, behold hypocrite.' Here, Trivium points out the contradiction in society's simultaneous condemnation and consumption of violent and tragic events. The repetition of 'Those who run will be burned' serves as a grim reminder that attempting to escape or ignore these harsh realities often leads to inevitable consequences.

Another significant aspect of the song is the portrayal of blindness and deception. Phrases like 'Devoutly wished for blinded eyes' and 'Holding onto lies to make the truth' suggest a willful ignorance or denial of reality. This self-deception is further emphasized by the imagery of 'bleeding out the eyes,' symbolizing the painful consequences of refusing to see the truth. The song's cyclical structure, with repeated lines and themes, reinforces the idea that these patterns of behavior and thought are deeply ingrained and difficult to break.

Overall, 'Like Light To The Flies' is a poignant commentary on human nature, exploring our complex relationship with tragedy, hypocrisy, and self-deception. Trivium's intense musical style amplifies the emotional weight of these themes, making the song a powerful reflection on the darker aspects of society.