"Pillars of Serpents" by Heaven Shall Burn is a powerful song that explores themes of corruption, oppression, and the desire for change. The lyrics highlight the destructive and manipulative nature of the world we live in, symbolized by the imagery of serpents and burning angels. The song begins with the proclamation of being alive, which can be interpreted as a call to rise up and take action against the injustices and struggles faced in life. The line "Final words of a god left drowning" suggests the loss of hope and power, as even the divine can be overwhelmed by the challenges of the world. The lyrics emphasize the need to break free from the confines of this corrupted world. The singer describes building walls and gathering strength as a means to protect themselves from the sinful and corrupt influences around them. This can be seen as a metaphorical representation of resisting the damaging temptations and societal pressures. There is a sense of frustration and anger towards the world, reflected in the lines "Nail your mouths shut, it's this world" and "Wasting lives away, consume to filling." These lyrics criticize the consumerist culture and the devaluation of life, urging for a change and an end to this cycle of destruction. The chorus expresses a longing for transformation and the need for a catalyst to ignite a revolution. The singer requests a spark to set the world on fire, symbolizing a desire for change and the hope for a better future. The repetition of the phrase "End this now" signifies a plea to bring an end to the suffering and injustice that exists. The song concludes with the realization that dreams of a better world have been shattered, as represented by the tears that wash away the dreams of angels. The last lines, "Pillars, Serpents, Make it over" can be interpreted as a call to overcome the oppressive forces present and strive for a world free from corruption and deceit. Overall, "Pillars of Serpents" expresses the band's frustration with the state of the world and their yearning for change. It serves as a rallying cry against societal flaws and a reminder to stand up and fight for a brighter future.
