Queen Of Sorrow

Zakk Wylde's 'Queen Of Sorrow' is a haunting exploration of despair and the desire for escape. The song opens with the protagonist stepping into the 'black,' a metaphor for entering a state of deep depression or darkness. The repeated phrase 'I won't be coming back' signifies a point of no return, suggesting that the protagonist has made a definitive decision to leave behind their past and the pain associated with it. This departure is not just physical but also emotional and psychological, as indicated by the line 'I've left it all behind.'

The chorus introduces the 'Queen of Sorrow,' a personification of the protagonist's inner turmoil and suffering. This figure represents the overwhelming sadness and 'hell within' that the protagonist is trying to escape. The act of 'closing my eyes and sitting back' symbolizes a surrender to this despair, as the protagonist watches their 'end begin.' This could be interpreted as a metaphor for giving up on life or succumbing to the overwhelming weight of their emotions. The repeated desire to 'step outside this world' reflects a longing for freedom and clarity, a place where the protagonist can finally 'see' and be free from their inner demons.

The song's structure, with its repetitive and cyclical lyrics, mirrors the inescapable spiral of depression. The 'void of sight and sound' and the 'spiral always down' further emphasize the sense of hopelessness and the inevitability of the protagonist's descent into darkness. Zakk Wylde's powerful vocals and the song's somber melody enhance the emotional weight of the lyrics, making 'Queen Of Sorrow' a poignant reflection on the struggles of mental health and the search for peace amidst chaos.