Meaning of "Souls of Black" by Testament

The lyrics of "Souls of Black" delve into the theme of societal manipulation and the disillusionment that follows. The song criticizes the political and corporate powers that make decisions based on their own interests, while disregarding the needs and aspirations of the people. The line "Political lies are just corporate decisions" suggests that the lies and deception perpetuated by politicians are actually part of a strategic plan created by corporations to further their own agendas. This connects to the idea that money and power often have control over the heart of a nation.

The metaphor of "lost souls" portrays the ordinary people who have become hopeless and disenchanted with the systems in place. The repetition of the phrase "Look at the lost souls, they seem so black" emphasizes the dark and despairing state of these individuals. The concept of blackness may symbolize the deep sadness and feeling of emptiness that comes from being let down by the broken promises of those in power.

The song also calls for a realization and rejection of the idolization of these manipulative forces. The lyrics urge listeners to open their eyes and see through the lies that are so blatantly present. By encouraging people to question and challenge the status quo, Testament urges individuals to reclaim their power and not passively accept the corruption and deceit around them. The line "Life goes on, there's no guarantees" reminds the audience that in the face of such uncertainty, it is essential to remain vigilant and aware.

In essence, "Souls of Black" serves as a warning against blindly following the agenda set by those in power and stresses the need for individual agency and critical thinking. It critiques the damaging effects of political lies and corporate manipulation, reminding listeners of the importance of not losing hope and fighting for a better future.