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

Harvester of Sorrow by Metallica is a compelling and thought-provoking song that delves into the dark depths of human experiences. In this powerful track, the band explores the harrowing subject of domestic violence and abuse, shedding light on the long-lasting effects of trauma. Released as a part of their iconic album '…And Justice for All', Harvester of Sorrow takes a slower, more contemplative approach, giving listeners a chance to truly immerse themselves in the haunting tale it tells.

About Harvester of Sorrow

Harvester of Sorrow stands out as a deeply personal and emotionally charged song in Metallica's extensive discography. It explores the life of a man who has been scarred by the haunting memories of abuse he experienced during his formative years. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a troubled soul who has been driven to the brink of insanity, ultimately leading him to commit an unimaginable act - the murder of his own family.

The song's title, Harvester of Sorrow, aptly captures the essence of the man's inner turmoil. The metaphor of a harvester, symbolizing the relentless harvesting of pain and anguish, evokes a sense of desolation and despair. Metallica, known for their vivid storytelling through lyrics, masterfully navigate the subject matter, allowing listeners to experience the protagonist's agony and the profound impact trauma can have on a person's life.

Despite its dark subject matter, Harvester of Sorrow offers a powerful platform for raising awareness about domestic violence and the lasting scars it leaves behind. By shining a spotlight on such a disturbing reality, Metallica challenges us to confront the uncomfortable truths that often remain hidden within society's shadows.

One notable aspect of Harvester of Sorrow is its musical composition. The track stands out as one of Metallica's slowest songs to date, delivering a deliberate and brooding pace that facilitates a deeper connection with the lyrics. The band's renowned ability to craft intricate melodies and captivating riffs is fully on display in this haunting composition.

James Hetfield's vocals further amplify the raw emotion embedded within the song. His powerful and emotive delivery captures the deep anguish and turmoil experienced by the protagonist. The tone of his voice resonates with the weight of the lyrics, entrancing the listener and allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the narrative.

As with many of Metallica's songs, the instrumentation of Harvester of Sorrow is a testament to the band's mastery of their craft. Louder and heavier sections create a sense of urgency and escalate the tension, while quieter moments leave space for reflection on the profound impact of the song's message.

Harvester of Sorrow showcases Metallica's ability to infuse their music with a multitude of emotions. The juxtaposition of subtle melodic interludes with thunderous guitar riffs and pounding drums creates a sonic landscape that reflects the complex emotional journey of the protagonist.

The lyrical depth of Harvester of Sorrow is a testament to Metallica's commitment to addressing important social issues through their music. The band has never shied away from exploring challenging subject matter, and this song serves as a poignant reminder of the power of music to provoke thought and create meaningful dialogue.

In addition to its profound message and meticulous composition, Harvester of Sorrow has also proven to be a beloved track among Metallica fans worldwide. Its place on '…And Justice for All,' an album considered a classic within the genre, further solidifies its significance in the band's body of work.

In the end, Harvester of Sorrow stands as a testament to Metallica's willingness to tackle difficult topics head-on. Through its haunting lyrics, powerful vocals, and expertly crafted musical arrangement, the song serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of abuse and the long-lasting effects of trauma on individuals.

With its lasting impact and ability to engage listeners on both an emotional and intellectual level, Harvester of Sorrow cements its place as a standout track within Metallica's extensive catalog and a testament to the power of music in addressing important societal issues.

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