Once Solemn
Paradise Lost Lyrics


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Once solemn, the thing I'm leaving alone
Once solemn, the looks that turn one to stone
And I'm learning the highs and the lows of the panic inside
And I'm learning the highs and the lows of the fake promises

Your powers electrify me
Your prowess repels apathy
Your image can turn your soul to stone

Can't find another way
Can't find the words to say

Unchaining the thing that's holding me down
And it's frustrating, the pressure's getting me down
And it's trying to live with a bad decision every day
It's a fever that's eating away in search for a fast release

Your powers electrify me
Devour the one that's guilty
Your image can turn a soul to stone

Can't find another way
Can't find the words to say

Your powers electrify me
Devour the one who's guilty




Your prowess repels apathy
Your image can turn a soul to stone

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of Paradise Lost's "Once Solemn" relate to themes of inner struggle, frustration, and the power of external forces to influence and even destroy the individual. The title "Once Solemn" alludes to a time when things seemed more peaceful or secure, but now that time has passed and the singer is grappling with uncertainty and desperation.


The central image in the lyrics is that of a powerful and alluring figure who can both electrify and repel, and whose image has the ability to turn souls to stone. This figure represents the forces of society, conformity, and authority that weigh heavily on the individual, limiting their freedom, creativity, and authenticity. The singer feels trapped and unable to express themselves, unable to find the words or the courage to break free from the pressure that's holding them down.


The lyrics also touch on the theme of regret and the torment of living with a bad decision every day. The fever that eats away suggests a sense of guilt or shame that the singer cannot escape, driving them to search for a fast release or some kind of redemption.


Overall, "Once Solemn" is a powerful and introspective song that explores the complexities of the human psyche and the struggles we all face in finding our place in the world.


Line by Line Meaning

Once solemn, the thing I'm leaving alone
I used to view this thing with reverence, but now I'm abandoning it behind with a heavy heart.


Once solemn, the looks that turn one to stone
The intense and cold stares from others that used to intimidate me so much.


And I'm learning the highs and the lows of the panic inside
I'm starting to understand the many different emotions that cause me to feel overwhelmed and anxious.


And I'm learning the highs and the lows of the fake promises
I'm coming to realize that the deceptive assurances meant to calm me down are ultimately empty and unfulfilling.


Your powers electrify me
You possess a magnetic force that completely captivates me.


Your prowess repels apathy
Your skill and talent is so impressive, it makes it impossible for me to think and feel disinterested.


Your image can turn your soul to stone
Your outward appearance and reputation is so intimidating and threatening that it can completely freeze and paralyze a person.


Can't find another way
I'm unable to come up with an alternative option or solution.


Can't find the words to say
I'm completely at a loss for what to communicate or how to articulate myself.


Unchaining the thing that's holding me down
Liberating myself from the thing that's been mentally or emotionally oppressing me.


And it's frustrating, the pressure's getting me down
It's becoming incredibly vexing and aggravating, the intensity of the expectations and demands weighing me down.


And it's trying to live with a bad decision every day
Every day I'm forced to deal with the consequences of a regretful and poorly thought out choice.


It's a fever that's eating away in search for a fast release
It's like a burning fever that's slowly eroding my mental and emotional stability as I desperately seek out a quick and easy way to alleviate the pain.


Devour the one that's guilty
Consume and eliminate the person who is responsible for causing harm or wrongdoing.




Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Written by: GREGORY JOHN MACKINTOSH, NICHOLAS JOHN HOLMES

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

Undisputed Attitude

Another instant classic from that magical album called * Draconian Times *, one of the best ever.

P D

Heavy AF

Salam Wati

What an album..their best no doubt. This is so fresh when first heard back then..still.

leonardo flores basile

don´t forget Icon !!!!!!!!!!!!

Victor Novaes

Essa música é perfeita.

Jani Lindström

AMAZING song for a AMAZING album. 🤘

Krzysztof Bejman

Zajebisty kawałek.

Bora Temizsoy

One of these really great albums contains no weak song

Dracandros

what a classic

chibi bunny

Classic 🖤

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