Black Sabbath - War Pigs / Luke's Wall

Black Sabbath's 'War Pigs / Luke's Wall' is a powerful anti-war anthem that critiques the corrupt and destructive nature of political and military leaders. The song opens with a vivid and dark imagery, comparing generals to witches at black masses, suggesting that their actions are driven by evil intentions. The 'sorcerer of death's construction' metaphorically represents the architects of war, who orchestrate death and destruction from behind the scenes. The lyrics paint a grim picture of the battlefield, where bodies burn and the relentless 'war machine' continues to operate, spreading death and hatred across humanity.

The song then shifts its focus to politicians, who are depicted as cowards hiding away from the consequences of the wars they initiate. These leaders are criticized for treating human lives as mere pawns in a game, making decisions that lead to widespread suffering while they remain safe and detached. The lyrics suggest that these politicians will eventually face judgment for their actions, hinting at a moral reckoning where they will be held accountable for the devastation they have caused.

In the final verses, the song envisions a world plunged into darkness, with the 'war pigs' losing their power and facing divine retribution. The imagery of ashes and burning bodies underscores the catastrophic impact of their actions. As God calls for judgment, the once-powerful war pigs are depicted as crawling and begging for mercy, while Satan, symbolizing ultimate evil, laughs at their downfall. This powerful conclusion serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of unchecked power and the inevitable justice that follows.