Meaning of "First Day in Hell" by Arch Enemy

The lyrics of "First Day in Hell" by Arch Enemy delve into the theme of human suffering, particularly in the context of war and conflict. The song describes the horrific experiences of individuals who are forcibly displaced from their homes and sent to a place of death and suffering. It portrays the dehumanization of the victims, stripping them of their names and reducing them to mere numbers. This highlights the loss of individuality and the erasure of their identity. The reference to archangels bending crosses, hooked, suggests a perversion of religious symbols and the involvement of corrupt power structures in the perpetuation of suffering.

The lyrics also shed light on the flawed justice system, where innocent individuals are sentenced without proper conviction. The use of golden stars to guide them, which are revealed to be the end of a gun, underscores the deceptive nature of authority and the exploitation of power. This highlights the wrongful persecution and the denial of justice for the victims.

The song further emphasizes the harsh conditions and the overcrowding of the captive population. The fear, terror, and hopelessness felt by the victims are depicted through imagery such as abandoned gates, sunken eyes, and the need for guards to walk a dozen paces. This creates a sense of confinement, desperation, and a loss of agency.

The repeated refrain of "our kind - our existence lights the fire, igniting hell on earth" conveys a sense of collective identity and shared burden among those who suffer. It suggests that their mere existence is a catalyst for the perpetuation of suffering and conflict.

Overall, "First Day in Hell" serves as a critique of war, injustice, and the impact it has on individuals. It highlights the dehumanization, loss of identity, flawed systems of justice, and the overwhelming sense of fear and hopelessness experienced by victims of war and conflict.