Meaning of "Darkness Descends" by Dark Angel

"Darkness Descends" delves into the darker aspects of human existence and the consequences that arise from our choices. The lyrics paint a grim picture of a world in decline, where fear and destruction have taken hold. The references to an aging world, the eradicating will, and the impending end highlight the decay of humanity. The song suggests that this decay is a result of religious decline, chaotic precursors, and the fear of the unknown.

Furthermore, the lyrics touch on the theme of death, both physical and metaphorical. The line "The crime is life, the sentence is death" signifies the burden of existence in a guilt-ridden society. The city itself is described as guilty, implying that it is complicit in the crimes of life itself. The song emphasizes the inevitability of death and the impending doom that looms over the world.

The lyrics also explore the theme of fire as a symbol of destruction and purging. The internal combustion and plutonic rage mentioned symbolize the inner turmoil and societal unrest. The concept of self-immolation reflects the desperate attempt to cleanse oneself of guilt and sin, even as the end approaches. It highlights the futility and unjustifiability of such actions in the face of the inevitable darkness.

The overall meaning of "Darkness Descends" revolves around the decay, fear, and destruction that come to define a world on the brink of annihilation. It serves as a critique of societal decline, religious extinction, and human denial in the face of imminent doom. The lyrics encompass a sense of hopelessness, as even the younger generation's dreams are crushed.