Schakal

Lacrimosa, known for their gothic and symphonic musical style, often delves into themes of darkness, love, and existential angst. 'Schakal' is no exception, presenting a rich tapestry of imagery that is both haunting and evocative. The lyrics, sung in German, with some lines in Finnish, paint a picture of a young angel in front of a temple, with vivid descriptions of blood, decay, and a plea for life amidst the desolation. The angelic figure, traditionally a symbol of purity and guidance, is depicted in a macabre state, suggesting a fall from grace or a loss of innocence.

The song's narrative seems to revolve around a character who is intimately connected with this angel, engaging in acts that blur the lines between the sacred and the profane. The repeated line 'Ich will nur leben' (I just want to live) underscores a desperate yearning for existence beyond the suffering and sin that the lyrics describe. The imagery of kissing hearts, loving flesh on the portal, and a tongue turned to stone at the base of a monument, all contribute to a sense of love that has been twisted into something dark and unrecognizable. The protagonist's actions, such as licking the angel's wounds and spreading ashes among other angels, suggest a ritualistic attempt to find redemption or perhaps to share in the angel's corrupted state.

The song's atmosphere is one of despair and a struggle for salvation. The protagonist's prayers in the darkness, begging for strength and for the angel to be allowed to sleep and pray, indicate a conflict between the desire for spiritual peace and the reality of a tormented existence. The repeated pleas to live reflect a fundamental human impulse to survive against overwhelming odds, making 'Schakal' a powerful exploration of the human condition through the lens of gothic symbolism.