Queen of Shadow

Delain's song 'Queen of Shadow' delves into the themes of grief, darkness, and inner strength. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a protagonist who is enveloped by the sorrow of the past, symbolized by the 'grief of yesterday' and the 'river running in the underworld.' This imagery suggests a deep, almost mythological struggle with pain and loss, where the protagonist is crowned in flame, signifying both suffering and a form of dark empowerment. The 'queen of mourning' and 'queen of shadow' are titles that reflect a powerful, albeit somber, sovereignty over these dark emotions.

The song's chorus emphasizes the idea of casting away the chaos of dreams to rule over the darkness. This can be interpreted as a call to embrace one's inner turmoil and use it as a source of strength rather than being overwhelmed by it. The shadows, which are often seen as negative or frightening, are instead enslaved and controlled under the protagonist's reign. This inversion of typical associations with darkness and shadows highlights a theme of empowerment through acceptance and mastery of one's darker aspects.

Delain's musical style, characterized by symphonic metal elements, complements the lyrical content by creating an epic and dramatic atmosphere. The repeated refrain of 'never drown' serves as a mantra of resilience, suggesting that despite the overwhelming nature of grief and darkness, the protagonist remains unyielding. The song ultimately portrays a journey of transformation, where the protagonist emerges as a ruler of their own inner world, commanding the shadows rather than being consumed by them.