"The Black Angel's Death Song" is a song by Lou Reed, John Cale, and Nico, released in 1967 as part of their album "The Velvet Underground & Nico." The song's lyrics are abstract and open to interpretation, but they convey a sense of choosing one's fate and the consequences that come with it. The opening lines suggest that the protagonist is faced with numerous options in life, symbolized by the choices on a plate. He contemplates what he has to lose and rejects a ghostly, troubled country and an old city street. Instead, he continues his wandering, accompanied by his brother, who may represent a sense of companionship. The song then mentions the Rally Man, whose incessant talking continues until the protagonist bids farewell, implying a desire for solitude. The "shining brightly, red-rimmed and red-lined with the time" suggests a sense of urgency and the pressure of making decisions. The mention of a cut mouth bleeding and antiseptic remains could allude to physical or emotional pain that accompanies making choices. The protagonist then flies to the cozy brown snow of the east, suggesting a change or escape from their current situation. There is a mention of sacrificial remains and the difficulty of forgetting one's origins. The "stools of your eyes" could refer to tears that serve as a reminder of fame or success. The refrain of the sacrilege recluse and the loss of a horse are perplexing and add to the abstract nature of the song. The lyrics encourage embracing epiphanies or moments of realization that may bring shame. Ultimately, one must choose a side and confront the consequences. The mention of split didactics and green mouse trails suggests the division and confusion of choices, with the green symbolizing inexperience or naivety. The repetition of "Choose to choose, choose to go" emphasizes the importance of making informed decisions. The song ends with the plea to "start the game," indicating a willingness to engage in life's challenges and uncertainties. Overall, "The Black Angel's Death Song" touches on themes of choice, consequence, societal expectations, and the complexities of decision-making. Its poetic and cryptic lyrics allow listeners to find their own meanings within the song.
