This song is based on Robert Browning's epic poem "Childe Roland to the Dark Tower Came". Told in 34 stanzas, it details the quest of an untested knight to reach what he calls "The Dark Tower". He travels through a wasteland and faces many dangers (most of which are in his own mind) and finally reaches the tower, sees apparitions of his fallen comrades who failed to complete this trial and blows a note on his slughorn to signify the end of his quest as well as his life.
The purpose of this quest as well as its outcome are never revealed in the poem thus it can be interpreted in 2 ways. One of a very optimistic view of overcoming obstacles to achieve your goals. Or a more bleak view stating that these tests and endeavors we go through daily that seem so important to US, really have no significance in the grand scheme of things and thus are totally pointless.
This poem, along with the painting by Thomas Moran (featured on the front cover of the EP) helped inspire Stephen King to write his famous "The Dark Tower" book series. His main protagonist is also named Roland. :)
the term "Childe" in this case refers to an untested knight. Not an actual little kid. in case people were wondering.
lyrics
Traveling alone in an unknown world
Accepting the burden that never was mine
To carry on for the knights who have gone
Keeping their name and their honor sacred
Was he a liar who told me this path?
Treacherous smile contorted staff
There is a tower, I'm doomed to go
an Unrevealed power this traveler must know
(I know)
I'll never return
But as long as there's breath in my lungs
Carry on I hear the call
My sword will burn
and the tower will crumble and fall
As I near it I hear them say
Childe Roland to the Dark Tower Came
the fallen have risen they're calling my name
Childe Roland to the Dark Tower Came
Questing for vengeance to never be seen again
Casting off nightmares from unsleeping eyes
Grim are the visions of death undisguised
Long have I journeyed to Unseen demise
All of my years wasted searching for lies
(It's time)
For me to die
But i fear that my tale won't be told
This misfortune is mine to hold
Childe Roland to the Dark Tower Came
the fallen have risen they're calling my name
Childe Roland to the Dark Tower Came
Questing for vengeance to never return
Childe Roland to the Dark Tower Came
the fallen have risen they're Screaming my name
Childe Roland to the Dark Tower Came
Questing for vengeance to never be seen again
credits
from Dangerous Days EP,
track released June 24, 2012
Lead/Backing Vocals - John Ryan
Backing Vocals - Chris Montalbo
Rhythm Guitars - John Ryan
Rhythm/Lead Guitars - Chris Montalbo
Bass -Ryan Berg
Drums - Joe Murawski