Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: psych-rock
Song Meaning of “De Vermis Mysteriis” by High On Fire
The title of this song by High On Fire, “De Vermis Mysteriis” comes from a book of the same name, written by Church of Satan founder Anton LaVey. The song’s lyrics carry a heavy tongue-in-cheek to them and could be interpreted as a mocking of traditional religious beliefs.
The song speaks about the mysteries of those who worship mysterious gods, those that live in the darkness and shadows. It speaks of a world inhabited by mythical creatures, where belief in these unknown forces reigns supreme. It speaks of a veil that hides the truth from those who veil themselves in mystery, an insurrection that can only be undone by uncovering the secrets of this faith.
This song speaks to those who may be following a religion, unsure of its secret meanings, and encourages them to seek out the truth. The chorus of the song says, “Wake up from the fog, the siren is calling your name/ Follow the path to the center, and find the key to the game/ Throw off the chains of obedience, and break the spell of fear/ ‘Cause on your own two feet, you’ll rise above and find salvation here.” The song encourages us to push beyond our comfort zone and to seek out knowledge and understanding to free ourselves from oppressive belief systems.