The Serpent And The King Lyrics

"The Serpent and The King" by Judas Priest is a song rich in symbolism and narrative deoth, exploring themes of power, corruption, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. The track is part of the band's album "Invincible Shield," noted for its slightly more progressive approach compared to its predecessor, "Firepower." This progression is not in the sense of becoming overly complex or akin to the style of Dream Theater, but rather through incorporating elements that break the traditional song structure, offering a fresh twist on the band's iconic sound​. Frontman Rob Halford has shared that the song captures the essence of Judas Priest's emduring dedication to heavy metal, delving into timeless themes that portray a cosmic battle between godly and devilish forces. This battle, as articulated in the lyrics, is a metaphor for the struggle between light and darkness, with an underlying message of optimism that love will ultimately triumph over evil​. Analytically, "The Serpent and The King" is described as delving into the dichotomy between opposing forces, with the serpent representing evil and the king symbolizing authority or righteousness. The narrative of the song paints a vivid picture of manipulation and control by powerful figures who bring about destruction and chaos. This control and manipulation is critiqued as leading to a society where the weak are oppressed and sacrificed for the benefit of the powerful. Furthermore, the song incorporates elements of celestial and infernal imagery, alluding to the cosmic scale of the conflict between good and evil, which has been a persistent theme throughout human history, fueled by both love and hate​. The chorus of the song emphasizes the central theme of tension between the archetypal figures of the serpent and the king, suggesting a cataclysmic conclusion to their ongoing struggle. Additionally, references to biblical stories, such as the Fall of Man, introduce themes of sin, redemption, and the eternal struggle between humanity's desires and moral obligations. Through this blend of religious, mythological, and allegorical references, Judas Priest crafts a narrative that warns against the dangers of blind obedience to corrupt authority and highlights the importance of resisting exploitation and manipulation.