Gates of Horn and Ivory
The Agonist Lyrics
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The lyrics of The Agonist's song "Gates of Horn and Ivory" convey a strong message about the dangers of material obsession and the pursuit of unrealistic desires. In the first verse, the lyrics criticize the relentless pursuit of possessions and the individualistic mindset that drives it. The person being addressed is trapped in a cycle of wanting and needing, but the lyrics suggest that what they are chasing is ultimately a lie. This highlights the futility of seeking fulfillment solely through materialistic means.
The chorus introduces the concept of "the gates of Horn and Ivory" as a metaphorical entrance into a new mindset. The fire symbolizes passion and determination, as the singer states that they will "tame the waters" and overcome their fears. They refuse to be controlled by fear and instead embrace the challenge. This brings into question the idea of mastering oneself and not allowing external forces to dictate one's actions.
The second verse continues the theme of self-empowerment. The singer challenges the notion of limitations imposed by others, asserting that they will not succumb to the doubts and criticisms of those who question their abilities. The phrase "instinct to the extinct" implies that following one's natural intuition has become rare, perhaps due to an over-analysis of situations that leads to paralysis.
The lyrics also suggest that the singer exists in a world of delusions, where ghosts (metaphorical representation of past regrets or haunting memories) haunt them. The world they once loved is falling apart, and they come to realize that what they are striving for is merely a fictional desire. This realization signifies a breaking point, where the singer starts to question their own values and desires.
In summary, "Gates of Horn and Ivory" serves as a critique of materialistic obsession and the pursuit of unrealistic desires. The song encourages listeners to break free from societal norms and challenge their fears, asserting that fear should not be their master. By entering the metaphorical gates of Horn and Ivory, they strive to overcome their own limitations and find true fulfillment in life.
Line by Line Meaning
Craving possession material obsession
Having an intense desire for material possessions
You function solitarily on lower brain transmission
You operate solely on basic instincts and impulses
You want it you need it you're never gonna get it
You have a strong desire for something that is unattainable
'Cause really what you're chasing is a lie to begin with
Because what you are pursuing is ultimately deceptive and untrue
Paralyze Manufacture aspiration
To immobilize and create false hopes for the future
Design the ideal outcome
Creating a desired result in your mind
Would you like to hear your story?
Do you want to know the reality of your own narrative?
All this time you've played the part
Throughout your life, you have been acting a certain role
A part that was chosen just for you
A role that was specifically assigned to you
Bite down on the painless
Suppressing and denying the truth that causes discomfort
Enter the gates of Horn and Ivory
Embarking on a journey towards enlightenment and truth
With fire at my back I will tame the waters
With determination and strength, I will conquer challenges
I will learn to swim Fear is not my master
I will overcome fear and not let it control me
How do I breathe? You will choke
If you try to impede my progress, you will suffocate
How do I walk? You will fall
If you try to hinder my path, you will stumble and fail
Instinct to the extinct Paralysis by analysis
Natural instincts are disregarded, leading to paralysis through overthinking
Trapped in delusions ghosts are out to haunt you
Confined within illusions, haunted by past mistakes and regrets
The world you've grown to love is slowly crumbling
The reality you have become attached to is gradually deteriorating
You need it you want it you're never gonna get it
You intensely desire something that will forever remain unattainable
'Cause really what you're after is a fictional desire
Because your pursuit is ultimately an imaginary longing
Enter the gates of Horn and Ivory
Embark on a path of discovering truth and enlightenment
Enter the gates of Horn and Ivory
Embark on a journey towards enlightenment and truth
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: CHRISTOPHER KELLS, DANIEL MARINO, PASCAL JOBIN, SIMON BAMBIC-MCKAY, VICKY PSARAKIS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Metaleiro
Sonzera top! Clipe muito bom! Parabéns a banda!
Abraço do Brasil! \m/
Vinicius Augusto
olha qm está aqui hehehe
Kawanna
Essa banda é top demais 💜💖❤️❤️💖
1MAL92b
At last a Greek Goddess in Heavy Metal scene !Well done Vicky !
Owais Wani
Heard this album 10 times in its entirety :) Totally KILLS \m/
Vicky's clean vocals are Majestic and her growls are monstrous :)
Misael David Sanchez Sanchez
wow, sounds too good, I love what she does
Thomas Cranfield
Both Vicky and Alissa are fantastic singers, I havn't listened to the agonist since the change, was too nervous that the change wouldn't work. Fortunately I was wrong and Vicky works fantastically, very happy with this change even if I did love Alissa too.
Tobi kun
@ruben garcia
except when vicky is singing live, she is pretty bad when it comes to playing shows....
ruben garcia
Very well said I say The Agonist is still awesome even with Vicky or Alissa
DaFlyinSkwirl
this sounds like a step in the right direction for the band. I loved the first two albums but prisoners didn't really grab me like the first two did. I'm looking forward to the new album