Meaning of "Heretic" by Avenged Sevenfold

The song "Heretic" by Avenged Sevenfold explores themes of injustice, persecution, and blind faith. The lyrics paint a picture of a person who has been falsely accused and is facing a harsh judgment. The repeated mentions of the person's flesh feeding the demon and being chosen to pay with their life highlight their resignation to the unjust fate that awaits them. This can be interpreted as an allegory for how innocent people can be victimized and sacrificed due to the ignorance, prejudice, and manipulation of those in power.

The lyrics also touch upon the topic of blind faith and the dangers that arise from it. The line "Mad men define find what matters, Turning witches and saints to ashes" suggests that those in power can arbitrarily define what is right or wrong, leading to the destruction of innocent individuals. This speaks to the idea of mob mentality and how easily people can be swayed by prevailing beliefs without questioning their validity. The reference to "rising masses" marching to find heretic blood emphasizes the blind following of the crowd, even when it leads to the persecution of the innocent.

Furthermore, the plea of "Please don’t leave me" signifies the desperation of the accused. They have walked a fragile line between guilt and innocence, and now they fear being abandoned and left to suffer the consequences of false accusations. This plea adds a personal and emotional aspect to the song, highlighting the individual's struggle and the desire for support and understanding.

Overall, "Heretic" delves into the themes of injustice, persecution, blind faith, and the vulnerability of innocent individuals in the face of mob mentality. It serves as a reminder to question prevailing beliefs, challenge unjust systems, and stand up for the truth.