With Strenth I Burn Lyrics - Emperor

[Originally released in 1997 on the album "Anthems to the Welkin at Dusk".] 

[Lyrical concept: Ihsahn & Samoth.] 

[Lyrics: Ihsahn.] 

[Music: Samoth & Ihsahn.] 

[Arrangements: Samoth & Ihsahn.] 

[8:17] 

Deep Green Dark Chaos. 

Blinded I run down these paths. 

By heart I know them. 

They lead to the soaring cliffs. 

Stout they stand above the water's edge, 

lifeless. 

And this is my foundation: 

Cold stone. 

Formed only by winds and time. 

How invulnerable, 

lifeless. 

Ahh... I have longed to be at one with this 

Yet, the waters call my name 

For once I wish to see 

the entity behind the voice. 

The face of this seduction, 

the beauty of my pain. 

Am I blessed or am I cursed by thy presence? 

What is my crime, what is my deed? 

Is this life my redemption? 

Shall I repent or proceed? 

I hate my flesh. 

Its dimension poisoned my soul with doubt. 

It made me question 

the essence of the "I". 

Slaves are those of this world 

given freedom to lay chains upon The Master. 

Master, master. 

The wolf is no longer free. 

Release the chains and come for me. 

[The Elder:] 

"Suddenly, his mournful cries were stunned. Out of the cold mist 

came three enthralling ships. Sails torn by many a storm, and the 

bows adorned by the most fierce gargoyles he'd ever laid eyes upon. 

Yet, the crew they bore... Three times twelve in numbers. They stood 

motionless, wrapped in grey, worn gowns. And from behind their 

shadowed faces the seductive chanting. Bidding him on board. 

Without besitation, he accepted. And away they sailed..." 

Upon these seas, 

wherein I drowned so many times, 

I scatter the ashes of destiny. 

Still my flames are in hunger. 

With fire in my heart 

shall I greet the shores ahead. 

Though, I know not what will burn. 

Desire... 

Ahh... 

In the distance 

I hear the waves wash over solid ground. 

And in this moment I am struck blind. 

Grant me sight so I can see 

that which lies ahead of me. 

Cursed be my mortal eyes 

for dying in the realm of Death. 

Hear my call... 

I return to the soaring cliffs. 

They truly shine of strength. 

Even though, I nothing learned. 

With strength I burn... 

[Guitar lead.]