The Rains Of Castamere

The song "The Rains Of Castamere" performed by The National is famously known as a recurring theme in the television series 'Game of Thrones.' It is a narrative ballad that tells the tale of the destruction of House Reyne of Castamere by Tywin Lannister. The lyrics serve as a metaphor for the Lannisters' immense power and their ruthless approach to dealing with those who challenge their authority. The song is a warning to others about the consequences of crossing the Lannisters, symbolized by their sigil, the lion.

The opening lines question the pride of a 'proud lord,' suggesting that no matter one's status or appearance ('a cat of a different coat'), they are not beyond the reach of the Lannisters' power ('a lion still has claws'). The repetition of the phrase 'And so he spoke, and so he spoke' emphasizes the finality of the lord's fate, as his words are all that remain after his defeat. The haunting refrain about the rains weeping over the halls of Castamere serves as a chilling reminder of the silence that follows the fall of those who oppose the Lannisters.

Culturally, the song has become synonymous with the idea of a cautionary tale about the dangers of hubris and the exercise of power. The National's deep baritone voice adds a somber and foreboding tone to the song, reinforcing its dark themes. The song's inclusion in 'Game of Thrones' has cemented its place in popular culture as an anthem of the consequences of pride and the inevitable downfall that often follows.