How great is my debt that my penance should be endless?
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How great is my debt that my penance should be endless?
Lo, my eager eyes will behold the truth.
Malum
O'Brother Lyrics
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Lo, my eager eyes will behold the truth.
The lyrics to O'Brother's song Malum are dense and thought-provoking. The two lines of the song convey a multitude of meanings, depending on the interpretation of the listener. At its core, the lyrics suggest a sense of guilt and a need for penitence. The opening question, "How great is my debt that my penance should be endless?" implies that the singer feels an insurmountable amount of culpability and is willing to do whatever it takes to make things right.
The second line, "Lo, my eager eyes will behold the truth," suggests that the singer is on a quest for redemption or enlightenment. They are actively seeking out the truth, perhaps to gain a better understanding of their situation or to find a way to make amends. There is a sense of urgency in the words "eager eyes," implying that the singer is highly motivated and driven to achieve their goal.
Overall, the lyrics to Malum are highly introspective and thought-provoking. They convey a sense of moral conflict and a desire for redemption that is both relatable and poignant.
Line by Line Meaning
How great is my debt that my penance should be endless?
My transgressions have caused me such a large debt that it seems my punishment will never end.
Lo, my eager eyes will behold the truth.
Despite the consequences of my actions, I remain hopeful that I will see and understand the reality of my situation.
Contributed by Christian M. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
Yup
on Oblivion
Reference to the need of Christ