Carnage

The song 'Carnage' by Mayhem is a visceral representation of the themes that are prevalent in black metal music. The lyrics are stark and brutal, conjuring images of witchcraft, blood, and satanic elements. This is not just a random assortment of dark imagery; it's a reflection of the band's commitment to the aesthetics and ethos of black metal, which often includes fascination with the occult, chaos, and the darker aspects of human nature.

The repeated invocation of blood, fire, torture, and pain, coupled with references to Armageddon and hell, suggests a narrative of apocalyptic destruction and the embrace of chaos. The song's title itself, 'Carnage,' implies a scene of widespread slaughter and destruction, which is a common theme in extreme metal genres. Mayhem, being one of the pioneers of the Norwegian black metal scene, is known for their intense and often controversial approach to music and performance, which 'Carnage' exemplifies.

The song also touches on the concept of war, both literal and metaphorical, as it speaks of 'winds of war, winds of hate.' This could be interpreted as a commentary on the inherent violence and conflict in the world, as well as an internal struggle within the self. The 'wage of mayhem' and 'wage of sin' lines suggest that there are consequences to these actions, possibly hinting at a larger philosophical or spiritual message about the nature of evil and the price one pays for indulging in it.