Candles

Within Temptation's song "Candles" delves into the themes of memory, loss, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of darkness encroaching upon the soul, symbolized by the cold wind blowing out candles. These candles represent hope and life, flickering in the face of overwhelming fear and despair. The imagery of a thousand dark moons and winters long suggests a prolonged period of suffering and sorrow, where each fallen star signifies a lost dream or a fading memory.

The repetition of the phrase "a thousand dark moons" and "a thousand winters long" emphasizes the enduring nature of this darkness. The candle burning in the womb can be interpreted as the fragile spark of life and hope that persists even in the darkest times. This metaphor highlights the resilience of the human spirit, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable odds. The womb, a symbol of creation and potential, contrasts with the pervasive darkness, suggesting that hope and life can still emerge from despair.

The lyrics also touch on the idea of remembrance and the struggle to keep memories alive. The line "We try not to forget, they live through us" speaks to the importance of holding onto the memories of those who have passed away. However, the inevitability of time means that these memories slowly fade, as indicated by the candles dying away. This poignant reflection on the transient nature of life and memory resonates deeply, reminding us of the delicate balance between holding on and letting go.