Citings & Sightings of Dante's Works in Contemporary Culture
“No doubt Symphony X is one of the bands whose songwriting and lyrical capabilities very closely resemble Dante’s style,” writes Loudwire’s Katy Irizary. “They’re known for writing lengthy concept albums that often pay homage to Greek mythology, literature, and poetry. 2015’s ‘Underworld’ is all about ‘Inferno,’ taking the listener on the very same terrifying journey as Dante, only in their own words.” – Katy Irizary, Loudwire, August 15, 2018
Read the full Loudwire article here.
“In Dante’s poem, Charon escorts the author and his guide, Virgil, across the river to the realm of the damned. The Scorpions make reference to a “blind man” in this cut from 1977’s ‘Taken By Force.’ This is in reference to the lost souls who did not have a coin for Charon, so they must blindly wander the banks of Styx for hundreds of years.” – Katy Irizary, Loudwire, August 15, 2018
Read the full Loudwire article here.
The lyrics in Kreator’s song “World Beyond” describe a trip through the gates of Hell similar to Dante and Virgil’s, according to Loudwire’s Katy Irizary.
The song discusses the river Styx and selling souls.
Read the full Loudwire article here.
Katy Irizarry explains that in this song King Diamond sings from the perspective of Charon, while he takes the lost souls across the River Styx.
“Welcome my friend, my name is Charon / Please take my hand, I know the secret land / Don’t be afraid, oh no / I’m faceless, but don’t fear now / I’ll take you safe across the River Styx.”
Read the full Loudwire article here.
“Dante juxtaposed Greek mythology with modern Catholicism, which is exactly what Hammerfall do in their hellish song, “666 – The Enemy Within,” Loudwire’s Katy Irrizary writes.
“The band sings of both the symbol of Christ’s death as well as the rivers of Hades. “Six, six, six / Get the holy crucifix / Throw it in / Into Acheron on Styx” – Katy Irrizary, Loudwire, August 15, 2018
