Metallica

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Harvester of Sorrow album cover

Harvester of Sorrow

Metallica

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
My life suffocates, planting the seeds of hate
I've loved, turned to hate, trapped far beyond my fate
I give, you take this life that I forsake
Been cheated of my youth, you've turned this lie to truth

[Pre-Chorus]
Anger, misery you'll suffer unto me

[Chorus]
Harvester of sorrow (Language of the mad)
Harvester of sorrow

[Verse 2]
Pure black looking clear, my work is done soon here
Try getting back to me, get back which used to be
Drink up, shoot in, let the beatings begin
Distributor of pain, your loss becomes my gain

[Pre-Chorus]
Anger, misery you'll suffer unto me

[Chorus]
Harvester of sorrow (Language of the mad)
Harvester of sorrow
[Guitar Solo]

[Verse 3]
All have said their prayers, invade their nightmares
To see into my eyes, you'll find where murder lies
Infanticide

[Chorus]
Harvester of sorrow (Language of the mad)
Harvester of sorrow (Language of the mad)

[Outro]
Harvester of sorrow
Harvester of sorrow
Harvester of sorrow
Harvester of sorrow
Harvester of sorrow
Harvester of sorrow

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If you're even moderately familiar with Metallica's discography, you'll know that they have composed some of the most subversive, aggressive, and impressive music of all time. From their first album, Kill 'Em All, to their latest releases, they've pushed the boundaries of heavy metal and rock music like no other band. One of their most popular songs, Harvester of Sorrow, is a perfect example of how they've managed to stay relevant and innovative in the ever-changing landscape of popular music.

Harvester of Sorrow is a song that takes its listeners on a journey into the darkest depths of human emotion and experience. It touches on themes that are not commonly talked about, such as trauma, domestic abuse, and mental illness. The lyrics are powerful and provocative, and the music is haunting and evocative, making it one of the most memorable songs on the renowned album …And Justice for All.

About Harvester of Sorrow

The song Harvester of Sorrow by Metallica is a slow, heavy, and deeply emotional track that deals with some very difficult themes. The lyrics are about a man who has suffered abuse during his childhood, something that has left a deep scar on his psyche. The trauma he experienced continues to haunt him even in his adulthood, and he ultimately succumbs to madness, deciding to murder his family as a result. The song is a poignant commentary on domestic violence and abuse, and explores how devastating these issues can be both for the victims and the perpetrators.

The lyrics of Harvester of Sorrow are powerful and thought-provoking. The opening lines go, "My life suffocates/ Planting seeds of hate/ I've loved, turned to hate/ Trapped far beyond my fate." These lines set the tone for the rest of the song, which is tense, brooding, and full of anxiety. The chorus goes, "Harvester of sorrow/ Language of the mad/ Harvester of sorrow/ Pure black looking clear/ My work is done, soon here/ Try getting back to me." These lines are a stark reminder of the mental state of the protagonist, who has been consumed by rage and despair.

The music in Harvester of Sorrow is intense and profound. The track begins with a slow, ominous guitar riff that is instantly recognizable. The drums and bass soon follow, creating a thick, heavy soundscape that is both menacing and oppressive. Rather than relying on speed and aggression, the song is built on a foundation of heavy, plodding grooves that create a sense of unease and tension. The guitar solos in the song are not flashy or showy, but instead, they contribute to the overall mood of the track, adding to its emotional weight.

Harvester of Sorrow is a testament to Metallica's ability to write songs that are both musically and lyrically complex. The band has always prided itself on their ability to push boundaries and challenge their listeners and themselves. The song is a prime example of how they've managed to do so continually. It's a song that demands the listener's attention and forces them to confront some very uncomfortable truths about the world we live in and the human condition as a whole.

In summary, Harvester of Sorrow is a song that not only showcases Metallica's technical abilities as musicians but also their intellectual and emotional depth as songwriters. It's a track that remains relevant and impactful almost three decades after its release and continues to resonate with people all over the world. If you're a fan of heavy metal or just great music in general, Harvester of Sorrow is a must-listen.

  • Release Date: August 25, 1988
  • Artist: Metallica