Valentine

Xandria's song 'Valentine' delves into themes of sacrifice, innocence, and the haunting nature of past actions. The lyrics are rich with gothic and romantic imagery, painting a picture of a person who is grappling with their own identity and the consequences of their choices. The repeated plea to 'be the valentine' and 'rip the heart of mine' suggests a willingness to offer oneself completely, even at the cost of great personal pain. This act of giving one's heart can be seen as a metaphor for vulnerability and the ultimate sacrifice in the name of love or a higher ideal.

The song's references to 'harvest time' and 'bloodred wine' evoke a sense of ritual and transformation. Harvest time traditionally symbolizes a period of reaping what has been sown, which in this context could mean facing the outcomes of one's past actions. The 'bloodred wine' and 'gilded art' suggest a blend of beauty and violence, indicating that the sacrifices made are both precious and painful. The line 'it is spilled from my own heart' underscores the personal cost of these sacrifices, emphasizing the deep emotional and physical toll they take.

The introspective verses reveal a struggle with self-perception and regret. The mirror's 'cold disgrace' and the difficulty in seeing one's own face reflect a loss of identity and self-worth. The mention of 'a childish forlorn wish' and the ease of seduction hint at a past filled with naive desires and mistakes. The Latin phrase 'pactum fraudis' (pact of deceit) and 'sanguinans' (bleeding) further highlight themes of betrayal and suffering. Ultimately, the song portrays a journey through pain and memory, where the protagonist is haunted by their past but continues to seek redemption and understanding through their art and sacrifices.