The song "Son of Rome" by JT Machinima is inspired by the video game "Ryse: Son of Rome." The lyrics describe the protagonist of the game, Marius Titus, who is a Roman legionnaire on a mission to avenge the death of his family and restore honor to Rome. The song highlights his bravery, leadership, and determination to fight against barbarian forces and protect his homeland. The lyrics emphasize the contrast between brave men and cowards, with the idea that brave men only taste death once while cowards experience fear and defeat repeatedly. The song portrays Marius as the embodiment of a true Roman soldier and leader, capable of making a Minotaur bleed and inspiring his troops to fight with him. The chorus emphasizes the unity and collective strength of the Roman legionnaires, who fight as one despite facing multiple enemies. The barbarians are described as traveling in packs, and the Roman soldiers retaliate fiercely, launching attacks and causing the enemy to retreat. The hero in the song rises from the ashes, driven by the anger and hatred of his father's death. The lyrics also touch upon the historical rise and fall of civilizations and the pursuit of vengeance for past atrocities. The song mentions the role of knowledge, foretelling the downfall of great civilizations, and the rebirth of heretics as martyrs. It conveys the notion that everything built by previous generations will eventually crumble. The second part of the song focuses on the protagonist, Damocles, who rises through the ranks as a symbol of Rome's strength and order. Despite carrying the weight of sorrow, he commands his troops with authority, aiming to prove himself as a true son of Rome and leave a lasting legacy. The song ends with the realization that empires will fade away over time, heroes will be lost, and Rome's power and civilization will eventually decline. The protagonist's determination and unwavering loyalty to his homeland drive him to fight until he is broken, embodying the spirit of a true Roman warrior. Overall, "Son of Rome" captures the story and themes of the video game, portraying the hero's journey, the power of collective strength, and the eventual decline of empires.
