The King Under The Mountain
Wind Rose
The Eternal Flame of Dwarven Legacy
Wind Rose's song "The King Under The Mountain" is a powerful anthem that draws heavily from the rich lore of J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth, particularly the tales of the Dwarves. The song's title and recurring phrase, "Hail the king under the mountain," refer to the legendary Dwarven kings who once ruled the great underground kingdoms, such as Erebor and Khazad-dûm. These kings, like Thorin Oakenshield from "The Hobbit," are often depicted as noble and resilient, striving to reclaim their lost thrones and restore their people's former glory.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world in decline, with grey mountains and dark chasms symbolizing the lost grandeur of the Dwarven realms. The absence of gold ores, hammers, and chants signifies the desolation and abandonment of these once-thriving halls. However, the song is not merely a lament for a bygone era; it is a call to action. The repeated invocation to the "Sons of Aulë" and "Sons of Durin" to answer the call and bring back the shining to the frozen halls is a rallying cry for renewal and resurgence.
The themes of legacy and perseverance are central to the song. The fallen reign of the Dwarves, described as glowing like embers under the stone, suggests that while their glory may be buried and forgotten, it still burns on, waiting to be rekindled. This enduring spirit is embodied in the new king who arises to reclaim the deathless throne, symbolizing hope and the unyielding determination to restore what was lost. Wind Rose, known for their epic and symphonic metal style, effectively uses these themes to create a song that is both a tribute to Tolkien's world and an inspiring message of resilience and revival.