Umbra

The song 'Umbra' by Ghost transports listeners to a universe where shadows and light coexist, exploring themes of duality and spirituality. The lyrics begin with a dark image, in which the soul of the lyrical self is in a state of coldness and darkness. This setting suggests deep introspection, where death is personified as a lover, symbolizing an intimate and inevitable relationship with the end. This powerful metaphor invites reflection on the inevitability of death and how it can be seen as a constant companion.

The use of black candles on the altar and the reference to the 'chapel of the holy one' create a contrast between the sacred and the profane. Black candles, traditionally associated with occult rituals, intensify the mystical and somber atmosphere. The lyrics suggest that darkness is not only a threatening presence but also a source of excitement and transformation. The presence of the 'chosen son' and the 'Nazarene' introduces Christian elements, suggesting a search for redemption or enlightenment within this dark setting. This duality between light and shadow reflects the complexity of faith and spirituality, where the divine and the shadow intertwine.

The repetition of 'In the shadows' throughout the song reinforces the idea that shadows are a space of transformation and revelation. The lyrical self seems to find a form of love and devotion within this environment, placing faith and love in something greater, even if shrouded in mystery and darkness. Thus, the lyrics explore a complex relationship between darkness, death, pain, and redemption, where suffering is both a companion and a process of purification.