| Dream Theater – Another Won Lyrics | 13 years ago |
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I think this song has to do with the mythological relationship between Zeus and Semele (father + mother of Dionysus) in Greek Mythology. Semele was a priestess of Zeus who was seduced by him, and they had an affair. Thus, the first stanza. The second stanza has to do with Hera's jealousy of this relationship, and her plan to seek revenge. Now before I continue, it should be made clear that there is a version of the myth which says that Hera disguised herself as a crane, befriended Semele, and suggested that Zeus was not really a god and the only way for him to prove it would be to ask him to reveal himself to see with her own eyes. Now, for the fourth stanza ('I hope it will turn out so but I can't help being afraid Perception is hindered by lust to be sure of the choice you have made.') I think this is a quote of Semele's inner thoughts. She hopes that Zeus is indeed who he says he is ("I hope it will turn out so but I can't help being afraid"), but also admits that her perception of him is distorted by her lust, so there is doubt in her mind. So, when they meet again, Semele asks Zeus to swear by the river styx ("Mighty River") to uphold whatever request she asks of him ('Grant me this request, please Just promise me your word Attest to the mighty river Let the truth be heard!') So in the next stanza we see what her request was -- To see Zeus in his full glory. "Her words were so quickly spoken; Lest he stop her from the deed" Describes Zeus' shock then reluctance to comply with the wish, but remember that because he swore, he has no choice. 'I gave you my word, now my love; Your grim request I shall heed!' Here Zeus fulfills his promise, realizing what the result will be (Semele's death). Upon revealing himself, the brilliance of his light kills Semele, because mortals cannot look upon Zeus' full form. ("Leaving his maiden he rose to the sky Returning in splendors to earth he did fly Subject to presence too brilliant to face") "Another one killed passion's grace" can be looked upon as just a synopsis of the song, or an indication that this is not the first time that Zeus' mistresses have been struck by his full form. Source: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Semele |
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