Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: new-age
Song Meaning of “Harold’s Despair” by Vangelis
Harold’s Despair is a track from Vangelis’ acclaimed album ‘La Fête Sauvage’; and it paints a picture of a man in the depths of complete desperation and hopelessness, as he struggles to hold onto his faith and come to terms with his inner turmoil.
The song starts off with eerie and mysterious layers of soundscape and ethereal synths that bring to mind a disorienting dreamscape, where little soundscapes are slowly revealed until it reaches its crescendo. This could possibly be symbolic of Harold feeling lost and confused in his despair, struggling and uncertain of where he will end up in his life.
The music then slowly builds until a delicate piano melody soon joins in, and continues to grow in intensity while the synths become more intense and mysterious. The piano builds and grows, signifying Harold’s confused emotions, and then slowly subsides as the song fades.
This could be indicative of Harold’s perseverance; he may be struggling to focus on what is important in life, despite his growing despair. The fading music could symbolize Harold beginning to make peace with his inner turmoil, and the darkness turning to light as his faith grows and he regains the confidence to carry on. Ultimately, the song paints a powerful and poignant picture of a man in darkness, who perseveres to the end despite his despair.