Mitternacht

E Nomine's 'Mitternacht' is a hauntingly atmospheric song that delves into the eerie and mystical aspects of midnight. The lyrics, a blend of German and Latin, create a chilling narrative that evokes the supernatural and the macabre. The song opens with imagery of gondolas draped in mourning and the echoes of the dead's lamentations, setting a somber and ghostly tone. The mention of 'grauen' (horror) sitting deep in the neck and the cold, dense fog touching softly at midnight paints a vivid picture of fear and suspense.

The recurring Latin phrases 'Loca in ferna in nocte' and 'Animae in nebula' translate to 'Places in the infernal night' and 'Souls in the mist,' respectively. These lines, combined with the German verses, emphasize the theme of wandering spirits and the otherworldly. The clock striking twelve, 'Campana sonat duodecies,' signifies the arrival of midnight, a time traditionally associated with supernatural occurrences and heightened fear. The repetition of 'Mitternacht' (midnight) throughout the song reinforces the central theme and the sense of dread that accompanies this hour.

The song's structure and lyrics create a sense of escalating tension. The blood freezing in the veins and the tightening of the throat with fear are visceral descriptions that draw the listener into the experience of terror. The heartbeats and the tolling bells at midnight serve as auditory symbols of the passage of time and the inevitability of encountering the unknown. E Nomine's use of both German and Latin adds a layer of mystique and historical depth, making 'Mitternacht' a compelling exploration of the fear and fascination surrounding the midnight hour.