If you look at the structure in which the song was written (it starts and ends the same way) it seems as if the character of the album was transformed by the pressures of the ocean. The idea that he's seen the face of death and chosen not to accept it's form simply means he will not die yet. Instead he sees demons and sees the weakness in their eyes. So demons fear him in his contempt of death.
"As the mountains crack and the oceans boil, a fury-tempered heart is forged.
Within the flames, this current of corruption will cease."
This is the moment of transformation. Where he turns into something else entirely and realizes it's time to strike back.
If you look at the structure in which the song was written (it starts and ends the same way) it seems as if the character of the album was transformed by the pressures of the ocean. The idea that he's seen the face of death and chosen not to accept it's form simply means he will not die yet. Instead he sees demons and sees the weakness in their eyes. So demons fear him in his contempt of death.
"As the mountains crack and the oceans boil, a fury-tempered heart is forged. Within the flames, this current of corruption will cease."
This is the moment of transformation. Where he turns into something else entirely and realizes it's time to strike back.
Parkway made a great concept album.