In Der Palästra Lyrics

Lyric discussion by ravensrayne 

Cover art for In Der Palästra lyrics by Sopor Aeternus

an ancient ghost awoke and fiercely arose in me: it was that old, savage, yet half-forgotten ideal of perfect neutrality.

scubzer0 , you are correct about the sentiment of the lyrics, however she was not born a hermaphrodite. She is a pre-operative transexual, and is not intending to have an operation. The above lyric refers to her very strong desire, not necessarily to become a woman, but rather to have no gender at all.

What sad bewilderment this brought, physical clearness, alas, still so much abhorred:

Here looking at him she sees remnants of herself or what she could have been if only she didn't hate that idea so much.

This song is beautiful, thank you so much Anna-Varney Cantodea.

I mostly agree with your interpretation, but there's a small nuance that I don't believe you covered.

Anna-Varney Cantodea is also a hermit. She detests the presence of another human being. This is the reason why Sopor Aeternus does not do tours or live performances.

"I somewhat envy this naturally beautiful man, he never knew or encountered the hatred and shame that I bare."

She does wish to be this man, however, it is not because of his gender, it is because she feels as though she is heavily flawed and sees no beauty in herself. The notions...

Good job, couldn't of said it better myself