Question by amorevolefe: A question, a question, a question, a question?
I was just visiting some old sites, when a link of a year-old question of mine popped up, and this place, R&P, came to mind. Has it been a while or what…
I thought of how much I’ve learned during the past two years, and as I begin to expand my knowledge, I begin to grow more curious, and I find myself with more questions than I had at square one…and I want answers.
The question was directed towards opinionated listeners mentioning that I have been debating the lyrical themes of some groups I listen to with a group of non-believers and they said I shouldn’t be listening to this music as it contradicts my beliefs. Them being “true” black metal fans, extending from the origin itself, they’ve said that ALL of Black metal fall under the same apparent condition, it is having the lyrics pertaining to either Satanism, Paganism or the Occult.
I’m not saying that there are conditions for one to be a fan of this genre, but it seems to raise the interest of people who support the ideas promoted through the context. I personally do not, but I and most others do persist in enjoying the music itself. I know the lyrics are an element of the music, but can the lyrics not be condoned as the music and talent are favored over it?
I’m still open to answers. However, I’m not yet completely done.
I discovered later on, that the Scandinavian metal bands contradicted their cultural roots by relying on Satanic themes, as they are known to pay tribute to their viking/pagan heritage through their music.
Let me just refer you to a question I found a while ago, it’ll explain everything:
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=Ap5LjqTcHAGd.MhHL5Obi8sjzKIX;_ylv=3?qid=20070920170032AAxiY8T
“The Viking History is something that is fiercely defended and as the guy who made the documentary says, Scandinavian Black Metal is an anomaly because instead of rejecting its culture and history like most other metal scenes it proudly embraces it.”
“the problem is that satan is a symbol of the judeo/christian religion. the vikings and pagans didn’t worship satan, let alone believe he even existed. therefore, any black metal band who has satanic imagery in their message is only giving validity to Christianity.”
Although I have known about this for a long time now, I still find it to be a subject of utmost interest. What are your thoughts?
Best answer:
Answer by Hazza
Yeah I too would think that most satanic bands don’t actually believe in Satan. That’s just an assumption though, as I just really can’t believe that any of them would as it means recognising Christianity. The reason I don’t really listen to black metal is because of all the Satanic themes, even if one particular band doesn’t affiliate itself with Satanism, I’m still put off because of the other bands that are, which is a shame, I guess, because I may be missing out on good music. I just can’t stand the “satanic” thing because it seems like such a gimmic and just a way to look cool and get people to listen. That’s my opinion anyway. Also, I don’t really enjoy the music of typical black metal. Then again, I haven’t really listened to much of it. Don’t get me wrong though – I do listen to a fair bit of metal, including Opeth (I’m assuming that’s what your name is a reference to), but black metal just seems… uggg… not really my kind of thing.
I’m not really sure what you’re question was though… I don’t think I answered it. It’s too early in the morning.
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