Afterburner Lyrics

Lyric discussion by Kingofstilport 

Cover art for Afterburner lyrics by Saxon

The song, similar to previous Saxon classics, centers around themes of power, speed, and destruction in the metaphor of aerial combat. It describes a sense of readiness and anticipation as one prepares to engage in a high-stakes battle, comparing the experience to that of launching a metal bird into the sky with full throttle and afterburners engaged.

They use the imagery of pulling the throttle back and turning the bow around into the wind to convey a sense of control and preparation for action, while the reference of "engines on full thrust" evoke a feeling of power and acceleration, symbolizing the intensity and speed of the impending conflict. Later repetition of "power, screaming, burning" and "afterburner," emphasizes the explosive and visceral nature of the encounter which heightens the sense of urgency and chaos in aerial combat and moving at high speeds.

Basically, the song is a metaphor for the adrenaline-fueled rush and ferocity of battle, drawing parallels between aerial combat and the gritty realities of human conflict. It uses evocative lyrics and imagery to capture the tension and excitement of warfare, highlighting the rush of power and destruction that accompanies such high-stakes engagements.

Song Meaning