"Deathmask" by Exhumed is a dark and morbidly descriptive song that delves into the disturbing world of embalming and the manipulation of the dead for cosmetic purposes. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the narrator's role as an embalmer, describing the meticulous process of preserving and beautifying the deceased's appearance. The song highlights the contrast between the grotesque reality of death and the superficial attempts to mask its effects. The embalmer takes on the role of a charlatan, using their skills to create a false sense of peace for the grieving. They see themselves as artists, striving to make the deceased appear presentable and serene. As the song progresses, the lyrics become increasingly graphic and deranged. The embalmer's actions morph from cosmetic enhancements to grotesque mutilation. They discard their make-up tools and instead turn to instruments of dissection, carving and rending the corpse in a frenzy. The once peaceful and dignified image is destroyed, leaving behind a grotesque and disfigured "deathmask." The song speaks to the discomfort and inherent contradiction in society's treatment of death. It criticizes the idea of romanticizing death and the cosmetic manipulations that attempt to mask its true nature. Instead, the lyrics suggest that death should be embraced as a natural part of life, rather than hidden or altered. Overall, "Deathmask" offers a macabre exploration of the embalming process, its implications on mortality, and the dark fascination surrounding death and its portrayal.
