☝️ Key Points
- The lyrics describe a dystopian future where humanity perishes due to its own actions and decisions.
- The first verse depicts a once glorious kingdom now plundered and ruined, alluding to the consequences of war and power.
- The chorus is a metaphor for obvious but often ignored warning signs, possibly proclaiming impending catastrophes.
- The second verse comments on anger, ignorance, and the state of warfare in today's society, particularly the glorification of violence in the West (from 'Hollywood to Babylon').
- The line 'A tide of change, it's coming and that is what you fear' addresses the general fear of change and the unknown, despite obvious warning signs and inevitable consequences.
Interpretation
"The Writing On The Wall" by
Iron Maiden is a song that describes a dystopian future where humanity has perished due to its own actions and decisions. It is a metaphor for the consequences of power, ignorance, and selfishness.
The first verse speaks of a once glorious kingdom that now only consists of a "train of vagabonds". This is an allusion to the state of the world after some kind of catastrophe or war. People have become slaves to their own victories, building graves for the brave - a dark portrayal of the consequences of war and power.
The chorus "Have you seen the writing on the wall" is an expression that suggests the inevitable is obvious but often ignored. "Can you see the riders on the storm" could be another warning or foreshadowing of upcoming disasters.
The second verse is about anger, ignorance, and war - from "Hollywood to Babylon". This could be a critique of Western culture and the glorification of violence and war.
The lines "A tide of change, it's coming and that is what you fear" point to the fear of change and the unknown. Despite the obvious warning signs (the "writing on the wall"), people don't want to hear or see the truth.
Overall, "The Writing On The Wall" is a bleak but compelling admonition for humanity to reconsider its actions and their impact on the world."