Meaning of "An Ancient Sign Of Coming Storm" by Amon Amarth

The lyrics of "An Ancient Sign Of Coming Storm" explore the themes of courage, destiny, and the inevitability of death. The song opens with the Norsemen setting sail, symbolizing their willingness to embrace danger and face whatever challenges lie ahead. The red sun serves as a foreboding sign, representing the imminent clash of swords and the bloodshed that will follow.

As the enemy fleet appears, the lyrics emphasize the lack of communication between the two sides, highlighting the pure violence and intensity of the battle. The rain of arrows darkening the sun is a vivid image that conveys the overwhelming nature of the fight, as warriors are brought to their knees.

The war-cry mentioned in the song alludes to the legendary horn of Heimdall, the god of war in Norse mythology. This war-cry serves as a call to action for the Norsemen, igniting their fighting spirit and reminding them of the heroic potential within themselves.

Ultimately, the lyrics suggest that true heroism is born in the face of death and adversity. The line "this is the place where heroes are born and where death is always near" captures the idea that it is in the midst of battle that individuals prove their worth and leave their mark on history. Despite the danger and the absence of any means of escape, the Norsemen fight with unwavering courage, determined to meet their fate with bravery.

The song's message can be seen as a celebration of the warrior spirit and the belief that one's deeds in battle can define their legacy. It also serves as a reminder of the impermanence of life and the fragility of human existence, as death is ever-present and can strike at any moment.