The song 'Guren no Yumiya' by Linked Horizon, often recognized as the opening theme for the anime 'Attack on Titan', conveys a deep sense of defiance, determination, and the fight for freedom against overwhelming odds. The lyrics depict the struggle of humanity against the giant Titans, using powerful imagery and metaphors related to hunting, weaponry, and battle, reflecting the themes of the anime itself.
The opening lines set a tone of remembrance and revival, as humanity recalls the fear of being dominated and the humiliation of captivity. These memories act as a metaphorical bow and arrow, launching towards freedom beyond confining walls. The lyrics suggest an awakening, a call to arms, and a refusal to remain passive.
As the song progresses, the mood intensifies with expressions of impatience for change, acknowledging at the same time that prayer alone won't alter reality. The imagery of flowers trampled without a name and birds fallen to the ground, waiting for the wind, evokes a feeling of frustration towards the current state of passivity and a yearning for the ability to rise again.
A turning point in the emotional journey arrives with the mention of contempt for those who scoff at the will to advance over 'corpses,' indicative of those hindering or mocking the fight for freedom. This scorn for complacency and false prosperity, in favor of the 'freedom' of a dying wolf, adds a layer of grit and the resolve to overcome.
Ultimately, the song crescendos into an outright declaration of battle against the Titans, as 'Guren no Yumiya' juxtaposes the act of hunting with the act of fighting for liberation. The refrain 'Wir sind die Jäger' (We are the hunters) captures a transformation from prey to predator, as humanity takes up arms against their oppressors.
"Seid ihr das Essen? Nein, wir sind die Jäger!"
These German lines translate to 'Are you the food? No, we are the hunters!' acting as a powerful reversal of roles, where humanity is no longer the hunted but the ones taking a stand against their predators.
"Feuerroter Pfeil und Bogen"
The phrase translates to 'Flame-red arrow and bow', symbolizing the fierce will to fight back.
"Wir sind die Jäger"
Repeated throughout the song and translated as 'We are the hunters', it emphasizes the shift from being victims to becoming warriors.
"Angriff auf die Titanen"
This line, translating to 'Attack on the Titans', directly references the title of the anime and the central theme of launching an offensive against colossal adversaries.