"War Pigs" by Black Sabbath is a landmark anti-war protest song, released in 1970 as the opening track on their album Paranoid3. Written primarily by bassist Geezer Butler, the song uses vivid, apocalyptic imagery and heavy symbolism to condemn war and those who profit from it—specifically, military leaders, politicians, and arms manufacturers125.
Meaning and Themes
- Condemnation of War Profiteers: The song portrays generals and arms dealers as "war pigs"—figures who orchestrate and profit from war while sending the poor and powerless to die in their place. The lyrics accuse these leaders of treating people like pawns and making war "just for fun," highlighting the moral bankruptcy of those in power.
- Symbolism and Imagery: "War Pigs" draws analogies between military leaders and witches at black masses, equating the act of war with evil and satanic rituals. The opening lines, "Generals gathered in their masses / Just like witches at black masses," set the tone for the song's scathing critique.
- Judgment and Retribution: The song ends with a vision of apocalyptic judgment, where the "war pigs" are stripped of power, forced to beg for mercy, and ultimately condemned as Satan "laughing, spreads his wings". This ending serves as a warning of eventual reckoning for those responsible for war.
- Vietnam War Context: Although the song was written during the Vietnam War era, Butler has stated it is a broader anti-war statement, not just about Vietnam but about all wars and the systemic evil behind them.
Notable Lyrics
"Politicians hide themselves away
They only started the war
Why should they go out to fight?
They leave that role to the poor, yeah"
"Now in darkness, world stops turning
Ashes where their bodies burning
No more war pigs have the power
Hand of God has struck the hour"
Origins
- The original title was "Walpurgis," referencing a witches' sabbath, but it was changed to "War Pigs" to avoid overtly satanic connotations, though the lyrics remained unchanged.
- The song's structure and sound—ominous guitar, air-raid sirens, and a relentless rhythm—enhance its sense of urgency and menace.
Legacy
"War Pigs" is considered one of the most powerful protest songs in rock history, lauded for its uncompromising message and its influence on the political dimension of heavy metal5. Its themes of anti-war outrage and condemnation of the powerful remain relevant and resonant decades after its release.
