Twitch Vocal Coach Reacts to "The Poet and the Pendulum" by Nightwish

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

And when the three minutes is up....... What does he do? (P.S. Didn't mention it in the Video...) Make sure to join the Discord and Follow on Twitch for the full community experience! twitch.tv/charliecalotta discord.gg/jUaeRzX6xr

[@paulastutina]

Exactly 3min after, he cuts his throat with his hand.. You can see it in the video.

[@pro-v7500]

3 minutes marks the time when the pendulum descends all the way, the end of the end, represented by Toumas’s hand/throat slice. The cathartic end of the end let’s him start again with a new beginning.

[@tomtom7459]

His hand goes across his throat in a symbolic gesture of the pendulum 😪😪😪

[@pete_lind]

When this song is about Tuomas own fight with keeping his mental health ... Floor Jansen , Mental Health & Music ft. Tom Englund - FLOOR FINDS #6 , Tom has progressive metal band , Evergrey and hes licensed mental health worker . Tom Englund lost his motivation to make music , so topic is a bit about Marko too ... kzbin.info/www/bejne/hoPPea1qZ8ann7s 16 min 11sec Its filmed before Markos letter , but we dont know when the band members knew that Marko thinks to leave public life .

[@inquisitorMence]

I don't know what your knowledge is based in, but as someone who has struggled with suicidal thinking for decades, your analysis is spot on.

[@naphackDT]

Ngl, this gotta be the best analysis of this song I've ever had the privilege of listening to.

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

Ngl you're awesome for saying that :) thank you!

[@eves1503]

Yes

[@timbroski4487]

Agreed! The one from Depraved Slayer is really good too, they might not look the most professional at first but they have very intelligent commentary imo

[@garywillingham3644]

ABSOLUTELY

[@caritakyllonen2830]

I never ever coment on anything, but I have to say, I so agree!!

[@clivematthews5296]

And only Floor could sing that song with such empathy. She is the best thing that happened to Nightwish.

[@GamerFreak670]

This is an incredible song and performance, this song is ridiculously well written and the performance from Floor is ridiculously good, the singing, storytelling and emotion are all out of this world. My favourite Nightwish live performance. Floor and Nightwish both are the gift that keeps on giving, excited to see you react to TGSOE!

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

You're damn right.

[@andrewhutchinson8025]

The greatest show on earth is definitely their magnum opus

[@GamerFreak670]

@@andrewhutchinson8025 I think you're correct, although I think personally I slightly prefer poet

[@ralfmeyer9086]

@@GamerFreak670 yep, the Poet..is the holy grail for me

[@Nemendril]

Tuomas is one of the greatest storytellers, Metal Mozart as they say.

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

He's really nothing less than that. This piece is real proof.

[@R---66---R]

And his KORG synths translate a lot of these emotions coming along with it!

[@stephaneboisvert8990]

And Floor perfectly renders, that song will never be the same without Marko, I just hope they ask Troy to make the voices.

[@transitambulance]

@@stephaneboisvert8990. I'm affraid Troy will not be able to give it the power Marco has. But maybe he can deliver it in another way

[@R---66---R]

@@transitambulance Maybe you're right and /\/ \/\/ decides to keep all changes internal and won't attract anyone from the outside world. NL loves /\/ \/\/ ! ! !

[@fjnw]

Wow Charlie, what a reaction this was. Not only because of the song, but also you having been able to help me discover new elements to the song and lyrics, even after 100+ times listening to it. Thank you so much. The way the bandmates support Tuomas and each other is heartwarming. In the Wembley set this song was preceded by Alpenglow. During the finale of Alpenglow Floor joined Tuomas at the keys and sang "... conquering the darkest places ..." to him, knowing TPATP was going to be next. Oh, how I love this band!

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

Frank, it's my pleasure! Thanks for being here :)

[@2kanchoo]

Dude.. I've watched literally HUNDREDS of nightwish reactions and this is by far and away the most in depth, comprehensive delve into not only this song, but any of their songs. You get/give way more information on the lyrics, meanings, background, composition than any other reaction I've seen. Well done!

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

This is super exciting to hear considering it was the first time I ever heard it. Thanks for the vote of confidence my friend!

[@minorvawter5830]

I may have overlooked it, but I don't see this in any other comments. Being an empath, Floor never looks at Toumas because she says she would lose it. You will also see Emppu and Marko check on Toumas several times in this song.

[@kantanen5066]

in 19:02 you can really see that she wants to REALLY check on him quickly but fastly looks away cause she knows it will make her singing so much harder...(and the same thing happens in time of 19:31 aswell... again looking over tuomas side.) I am just so glad I picked that up and saw that she is really empathic person

[@mennawaris144]

Yes and when Emppu goes up to Tuomas the first time, he clearly asks him ”are you okay?” and Tuomas smiles and answers ”joo” which means ”yes”.

[@CrimsonRoseDancer]

I love how Emppu goes to Tuomas to check on him and lighten the mood a bit. Then at the end he and Marco both gather around him. I feel you are one of the few to truly understand this song.

[@pdutchie4924]

One of the best reactions to The Poet and the Pendulum I have seen, I could see you really felt this one, great job Charlie! 👍🏻🙏🏻

[@m.vondrake5534]

Floor can relate so well to the song. As she was suffering from burnout with her previous band, the members took off. She had written most of the songs, done all the press and extra work and rather than stick by her and help, they started other projects...

[@marcel021065]

Dear friend, i am unbelieveble happy, why, this is the first time i watch this song with a reactor that understands the song, the lyrics the voice, thanks you gave this song a extra dimension, stay safe,

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

Marcel. It's my pleasure :)

[@darkiee69]

Nightwish was started by Tuomas, Emppu, and Tarja, their first singer. In 2005, after the recording of the "End of an era" dvd Tarja was fired thru a letter given to her by Tuomas, but it was a band decision. The letter was also posted on the bands homepage at the same time. Marko had told Tuomas "It's me or her". This song is about the aftermath thru Tuomas eyes. A piece in five parts. 1. White lands of Empathica.: Boy soprano (Guy Elliot). "The end, the songwriter's dead, the blade fell upon him" It's the end of an era, Tuomas feels dead inside, he was the one that handed Tarja the letter. The white lands of Emphatica is a place in Stephen Kings "Dark Tower" series. 2. Home: "A poet without a rime, a widowed writer torn apart by the chains of hell" Tuomas got writers block, he's lost his musical "wife", his muse, and was fighting depression and doubt. "My home was there and then, those meadows of heaven. Adventure filled days one with every smiling face" The bands beginning, before the troubles started. 3 The Pacific: "On the shore, se sat and hoped under the same pale moon who's guiding light chose you, chose you all" If I remember it right Tuomas, Emppu, and Tarja was having a barbecue at night when they decided to start a band together. The operatic part Floor sings was originally sung by the same boy soprano who sings the intro. When Floor joined she told Tuomas that she could sing that. He decided to keep the intro but let Floor sing that part. The spoken words are read by a boy named Tom Williams. Both him and Guy Elliot were members of Reigate St Mary's Choir School. 4. Dark passion play: This is about the reactions from fans and media where everyone blamed Tuomas even tho it was a band decision. He was ripped apart, even the Finnish prime minister had an opinion. 5. Mother and Father: Tuomas took refuge at his parents house for a while, these are some of the things they told him during that time. Tuomas was inspired by the short story "The pit and the pendulum" by Edgar Allen Poe when he wrote this masterpiece. The first words are "The end", the last words are "The beginning". It's the end of an era and the start of a new. When you see Marko and Emppu close to Tuomas at the end it's a thing they have thet started when this song was new. Tuomas feelings where still raw so they supported him at the end of the song. Tuomas had chosen to have Anettes song cut out of the mix in his earpiece at the shows. This was 11 years after the events, so he's mostly over it now

[@civiumardor6344]

Simply put, Floor *is* his voice. She embodies the meaning and emotions of the music.

[@davidcoyne7291]

I saw them perform the song in Amsterdam 2015 just a few weeks before this Wembley concert was filmed. I wasn't expecting it to be on the set list but let me tell you it was quite an experience. It was mid set and they replaced it with other songs the following night so i don't know if they just played it occasionally on that tour. Just like you we still had to experience The Greatest Show on Earth as the last song of the set. One of the most mind blowing concerts i have experienced.

[@lazaruslong697]

After watching like a hundred reactions to this "song" I thought I have heard it all. You sir deserve your Big Brain moniker, that is for sure, amazing deconstruction. I tip my imaginary hat to you.

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

Huge compliment. Thank you so much :)

[@101Mant]

I've seen a lot of reactions to this song, people diving into the vocal techniques and then music, but I haven't seen anyone go into the emotions and meanings in the way you did here Really good reaction.

[@gentilis1627]

This song is such an emotional rollercoaster. I can't listen to it too much, because it's so overwhelming.

[@garywillingham3644]

I have posted exactly the same thing Its tooooo much now and then but not very often I understand why it is a retired song PS this guy got it pretty much right

[@Taygetea]

Tarja: Thesis. Annette: Antithesis. Floor: Synthesis.

[@Magic_Pumpkin_Poetry]

I was lucky enough for Floor to answer a question I asked on her fan Friday, you mention that she is an empath, she is also a HSP (highly sensitive person) and I asked her how she avoids getting emotionally overwhelmed while still connecting and displaying the level of emotion that she shows in songs that us as an audience would be crying let alone sensitive empathic people. She said she makes sure she has already shed the tears and its all in the preparation and that also she can't look at the audience because if she saw someone else 'go' then she would too. As a fellow empath/hsp hearing her answer gave me another whole level of appreciation of her abilities 🧡

[@erikvanderlooij5216]

I normally don't react much on youtube, but I feel the need to do so now: this is such a good breakdown of one of my all time favorite music pieces, but also adding comments to the content. I am sure there are people out there who struggle especially in these times. Thank you so much Charlie! Keep up the good work

[@gabrielstratton1775]

Ive seen many a reaction to this song, but this may be the most in depth exposition of it i have witnessed... well done sir

[@barbaravance6774]

I'm surprised that NO ONE has noticed at 30:03 Tuomas has tears.?!?! Not one reactor or comment! I'm truly glad that he was able to put his feeling into this amazing composition instead of the alternative! We loose way too many amazingly talented musicians. 💕💕 This song makes me cry every single time. It's beautiful. As a mother, I pray I never have to deal with my boys being this sad.

[@stefanstock953]

@barbaravance6774 greetings and Love from Germany. You might don't read my comment cause i'm 2 years late. Luckywise i accidently read your comment. Damn, you hit me really hard. I thought: "..what, Tuomas, tears.? Where.?" And so i have checked the time stamp you gave. And it was so heartbreaking and painful to watch. I never noticed that. Why.? Normaly i have a sharp eye when it comes to details. And i can't tell how often i watched it and how many different reacters i've saw. And how many comments i've read. And not a single one of them had mentioned it. Anyway, you mentioned it and only that counts, i really appreciate it and thank you very, very much. You have to be a great mum, for sure. So i really hope you're still here on KZbin and read my 'Thank You' comment. Have a peaceful day and stay safe, my dear ❤

[@ashleyfletcher5044]

Tuomas is a gem to this world. Thank you for reacting to this masterpiece. I always get tears in my eyes looking at the emotion of him in this one.

[@palmanbracht9125]

So finally one with depth knowledge of text and composing. We have singing Julia, music Chase, production Tank, and now you man. Thank you very much for this reaction.

[@garywillingham3644]

He Gets it for sure Absolutely opened my eyes some Best music on the Planet right now So So Soooo thank you

[@xxy730]

Give the Charismatic Voice a try. She's awesome as well

[@billattercliffe8655]

This song owes much to Edgar Allen Poe and the "Pit and the Pendulum" with its psychological torture and its descending blade (the imagery in the background). It's also alluded to in "strapped to the altar" as in the story, the protagonist is held down, watching the blade descend.

[@jimharris367]

That right there was the most intelligent, insightful and eloquent analysis of the lyrical themes in this song that i have seen to date - and I've seen a few great reactions 🤘

[@chrissturkenboom6080]

Floor can really understand because, she went through a difficult time when her band too. She had a breakdown too. Floor has the ability to put so much emotion/feeling in her voice.

[@lasse4416]

HOW, have i not seen you before? I watch basically all reactions to nightwish songs and this was easily my favorite Poet analysis and even live! Respect man! Wow.

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

Hey thanks! Only been uploading for a few months so I'm glad you found the channel :)

[@artohietanen8576]

Respect! You are the first American realizing that the opening singer is boy soprano!!! ♥

[@heedoei]

Thnx for this reaction, it’s such a beautiful song with so much deep meaning, it deserves a deep reaction 😍

[@marita2g]

You really nailed this reaction. Just wow!

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

Ah, thank you Marita! I'm glad it happened how it did. It was really some key members of the community that made my first ever listen of the piece so impacting :)

[@marita2g]

@@CharlieCalottaReacts well I love that! Nightwish got a great community. Let’s hope you get some info from them when you do TGSOE on Wednesday 😄 shirt version from me: it’s about evolution.

[@ciflores0]

This video was great, thanks. The mixture of both your musical inputs and your personal ones make this reaction unique, even for a song that has been reacted to so many times. Also just wanted to say I've been watching most of your videos and they've been really insightful. Hoping I can catch a stream sometime.

[@karinas4731]

Great reaction and analysis. When you said that Tuomas was singing along only in the last part, it was like a "wow" moment for me. Watched it so many times and never noticed before. Thank you, keep it up!

[@jeffreyneas9510]

English is not Toumas', native language. Yet he writes such beautiful and deep lyrics. It's remarkable.

[@annukkas]

Well this was very thorough and emotional reaction. The most thorough I've seen and there has been a few great ones already (Chase's included - well, I think there's a tie between you two) . So thank you - can't wait for The Greatest Show on Earth. ❤️

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

Wednesday

[@johnhitchens2265]

Because Floor is wearing a very tight corset, you can focus on her abdomen and see her breath control. If Ghost Love Score showcases Floor's legato, this one showcases her amazing breathing control - it's somewhat fascinating

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

Completely agreed! Though I think at Floor's level of technique and artistry, the appropriate level of support/legato/other technical principals is always present for her desired storytelling. Love the observation though. Corsets tell all!

[@johnhitchens2265]

@@CharlieCalottaReacts my son is also a trained singer/performer, and it is the first thing we noticed when we watched the concert. I mean, obviously Floor does everything well. From this same concert, 7 Days to the Wolves is a belting tour de force

[@velvetxwings]

@@CharlieCalottaReacts You may find Sahara live from Tampa very interesting. Floor's top is tight and transparent enough that you can see her muscles doing every little thing as she sings.

[@jemimus]

Catching up to your previous reactions. What an amazing analysis. I often break down during this song, knowing the history and context. But this reaction was on a whole different level, and so much was added by the live comments during the stream. Really beautiful.

[@hopegreer3357]

Thank you so much!! Absolutely LOVE this analysis and reading the comments from your Discord members made it sooo much better.

[@DorrySkog]

This was by far the best reaction and analysis of this song, this masterpiece I have ever seen. I absolutely love this song and it's the only song that can make me cry and feel emotionally consistently even when I heard it hundreds of times. And the more I listen to it, the more I feel connected to it and the more I enjoy it. Thank you for this amazing reaction!

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

Wow, I would never have expected s wonderful compliment like this! Thank you Vojta!

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

Makes me so happy 😊

[@jmartin4396]

This is one of the most gut-wrenchingly beautiful songs and performances I've ever seen. I've watched this many times and am never not moved. The more you learn about the history involved, the better it actually gets because the more you can register what you are listening to. Thank you for one of the best. and most appreciative analysis I've come across for it as well.

[@eddiecreutzburg7375]

Giving voice to this Epic composition, only Floor is capable of doing it, to perfection. Tarja and Annette, they both lack the power, emotion, the many colours in her voice, that Floor possesses .IMO Hail Nightwish

[@GabiBrooks]

You know what? I used to think Tarja had the most powerful voice but Floor really is their best vocalist. I totally agree with you even through I wound have chosen Tarja in the past. Floor's versatility and control is something Tarja lacks (something I learned after studying singing myself for a few years), her strenght being her head voice. Floor does it all wonderfully.

[@eddiecreutzburg7375]

@@GabiBrooks Yep, she sang a song called Adagio. Don't know it but vocal coaches were blown away by the power of her voice. A tenor said, she has so many colours in her voice and also her dynamic. She is an empath, so she can convey emotion in a truly powerful way. She really touches you. The Goddess of Empathy and Metal... lol.

[@GabiBrooks]

@@eddiecreutzburg7375 I feel so bad for not appreciating her enough sooner

[@rawanjensen102]

"Our Decades In The Sun" (from their "Endless Forms Most Beautiful" album) is a song from the band members to their parents; and it is GORGEOUS! I think you would love it.

[@ralfmeyer9086]

Yes, you are so 😞🤗

[@ew56]

A reactor called Sabine described this and GSOE as symphonies and I have to agree. I feel that Tuomas's sadness and depression wasn't just from losing his muse and the backlash but losing his life's work. All his songs had been written for Tarja and who else could possibly match her, I feel his happiness with having floor in the band is that he was regaining his songs. Floor is good friends with Tarja and before she agreed to join Nightwish Floor rang Tarja to get her OK, Tarja said that enough time had passed and gave Floor her blessings.

[@alleninfinity6730]

I love that that there are others in the messed up world we live in, that find the same beauty and talent in this one of a kind band, composer, and greatest vocalist ever. Makes me smile and relive my joy through people like you, when I first heard them myself.

[@smurlik]

What a reaction! I've known the story behind this one for a long time but my god I've never thought it this deeply than during watching this.

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

Hey thank you! All I can offer is my experience working with music and if it can irk new ideas and passion, then I've done my job. And it's so clear that Tuomas really does have such a deep ocean within him that we are fortunate to be able to excavate in order to understand ourselves more.

[@mailen5187]

This song is a Masterpiece and the most personal song for Tuomas about his pain in letting Tarja go from the band. The part "I cannot cry, cause the shoulder cries more" One interpretation has been that Tuomas couldn't go to Tarja and cry on her shoulder, because Tarja was also in pain and was crying more. I have listened to this song many times and every single time get tears in my eyes. Thank you very much for your deep analysis.

[@TheLEEC]

Thank you... Finally the reaction and analysis this song deserves.

[@garywillingham3644]

iNDEED

[@Donna-C]

This was THE MOST AMAZING summary of this song, the lyrics, the emotions, the talents - you fully understand. Thank you. 🖤

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

Much appreciated, Donna!

[@Shamankzn]

Thanks for this Charlie, I thoroughly enjoyed your reaction and insights. Seriously, you are a rare gem in this reaction community, keep up the good work

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

Thank you Darren! It's really been an amazing exploration of new music for me guided by people like yourself. Looking forward to where it goes from here :)

[@nadiauribe6202]

Great reaction and analysis! A great job as always. Keep on making super cool videos like this. And more Nightwish! I also suggest something from Therion, great compositions too.

[@cornflowerofsweden1288]

Thank you for posting this on KZbin so I could watch it. Insightful and thoughtful reaction to a true masterpiece.

[@winterwillow3078]

Thank you for your great content. I feel like you opened up this song for me better than before. Nightwish is amazing, Tarja, Anette, Floor does not matter. I find myself in their music.

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

That is beautiful Winter. Much appreciated 🙏

[@YYZatcboy]

I'm so glad someone finally talked about this song from a suicide survivors point of view.

[@ImperiumiTV]

Meadows of Heaven is Tuomas's childhood. He's referred to it in several songs.

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

Thank you that's awesome to know

[@philius6692]

New to the channel and can't believe the depth of insight into the song! Can't wait to watch some more of your insightful reactions! Thanks for sharing!

[@coolgabe64]

Tuomas felt that Tarja and her husband betrayed him and the band. She fell in love with her own legend and that was the main reason of her firing. Tuomas fell into depression and wrote this song as a farewell to Tarja and him getting out of that deep hole. Nightwish was his brainchild and Tarja took advantage of it. Thus went the friendship too. And we got this masterpiece. Also finding Floor as the part of the group is the best thing could have happened to them and personally to Tuomas. Now they gotta deal with the Marko situation but I have a feeling that he will be back at some point. I hope, I'm right. Your analysis by the way was spot on. Great job

[@jillmclane256]

I agree.... Marko will be back.

[@Daniel-dj1tf]

Give him time. Plenty of music to enjoy till he comes back.

[@colinnormanton4887]

wish marco well in the future sorely missed but stay well

[@katy9291]

@@jillmclane256 i really really hope so

[@bondomu]

Gosh this was beautiful. Easily the greatest breakdown of this song that I have seen thus far. ❤️

[@brianalmeida1964]

Thanks Charlie. That was one of the most enjoyable, indepth and emotional reactions to The Poet And The Pendulum I've watched. Thank you also for your research on the song. Looking forward to your reaction to The Greatest Show On Earth. Stay safe🤘✌

[@RandallMorris222]

That was a beautiful analysis of the lyrics and music. Thank you so much.

[@lorgrenbenirus]

Loved your reaction and your view and explanation. Great insights and thoughts. Also very glad to see that Chase was also in the chat, seen his reactions and analysis, love those as well.

[@LetsWatchSweetydog]

The best reaction video on this song I have seen so far, thank you! I think Tuomas is in a happier place now compared to the time he wrote TPATP. He went from "The blade will keep on descending" to "Dull the blade and dance some more" in "How's the Heart" from the latest album.

[@annhelensjostrom9065]

OH shit.... Every time he screams "try to save them all, bleed no more" to the sky.... I'm bawling. So painful... 🥺

[@miskalehikoinen419]

Every time. There's so much emotion in that sentence.

[@henkras2049]

For me, the best reaction and analyse, I have seen of this MASTERPIECE. Thank you!

[@jemakrol]

For some reason, I got hooked on reaction videos a year ago or two. That's how I fell in love with NW. This is by far the best journey of that song someone has made with the lucky viewers and listeners. I can relate to the song and what you're saying. For a complete context switch but still so interesting - watch the documentary 'Please learn the set list in 48 hours" about part of the NW adventures. Gives some context too, from another angle.

[@toolman0701]

Your analysis/reaction has been both complete and insightful. VERY impressive for a first listen. I'm glad I subscribed, I look forward to watching your vids!

[@frenkwd1]

Very well done. You unraveled the story well. Thank you for that.

[@sylxeria]

All of it, amazing. One thing I rarely see Reaction videos cover though, is the pendulum itself. Right at the end of The Pacific's dialogue from the boy you hear it grinding, then the gears winding it up, and finally it being unleashed and right THEN it switches over the frantic tones of Dark Passion Play taking wing. Shivers every single time. But then once more during the drums at the end of DPP itself... During the spoken dialogue there, you can hear the whoosh of the pendulum swinging once... Then twice... And then right after they say "Save me!" it makes contact. It's a small detail that adds so much impact :>

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

This is clearly an observation made by a fantastic lover of this music. I'll make sure to notice it every time I hear this piece going forward. What a chilling addition.

[@Kekoapono]

Sir. SIR!! This is BY. FAR. The best reaction and analysis to this work of art I've seen and heard. Congratulations, and Thank you very much. It's so gratifying to see someone else understand the majesty and excellence of this, one of the best modern compositions of music ever written. I hope many thousands--if not millions--more people will see this video, and listen to this music, and ultimately have their souls... their very essence, enriched and edified.

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

You're too kind sir. Please feel free to share it if you feel so strongly!

[@justinp7017]

Floor's brilliance is indescribable.

[@larryd4352]

Your interpretation of this song is so darn insightful! It took me several times listening to this song, and reading the background to understand the song! It is a real tear jerker for sure!

[@billattercliffe8655]

On the original with Anette, "Sparkel My Scenery" was sung by a boy soprano. Floor imitates his immature, innocent voice.

[@papaverweg]

Comparing 'The Poet and the Pendulum' and 'Dead Boy's Poem': You should also realize that the characters in this song represent not only Tuomas versus Tarja, but also the band versus Tarja's fans. Like 'The Poet and the Pendulum', 'Dead Boy's Poem' are means in which Tuomas processed his damaged emotions as a result of everything related to the break between NW and their 1st female vocalist by writing it off. While the 1st song was build in 5 parts conform the five stages of grief, this song speaks of forgiveness and resignation. He can look back on it without blame and on again. Love again. I think this song is about Tuomas (as figurehead of Nightwish before, during, and after the break with Tarja in 2005) who is abused, or at least misunderstood (by almost every Tarja fan and even the mayor of their hometown). He never had anyone to talk to (a shoulder to cry on, he is the whore of the cold world), so he puts all his thoughts and feelings down in song. The song becomes his best friend, and he puts all his strength into it, so it can give him the strength he needs to get through life. The song shows all the parts of his soul. Eventually, he tries to make his life better, but no matter what he does, he could never get back to the childlike innocence he and Tarja used to have before the break. So he tries to learn and he reaches for wisdom (see also the meaning of ‘Ghost River’ you have to go through struggles of life to reach the other side of adulthood, cross that river) but things are just too much, and the right choice unclear. He is not infallible, isn’t God. And he says that people shouldn't sigh and wish for a better world, because the world's song, with all its different parts, has already been written and done. He is doing much the same thing, only for himself (and the band’s future). During the spoken part (in quotation marks), he tells people not to remember "him", the silent, misunderstood boy, but the song that as his (and Nightwish) soul. Deep down, he wants to be loved, to sit on his mother's lap and feel his heart has a home. He could live forever in that. But instead, he wrote his life and soul on the piano. Since he can't get his wish, and can't fix the problems in (between Tarja and the band) life and the (the outside) world, he has no passion for anything. He cares about the world, and people, but feels he is wasting air since he has no love, no passion, and nothing to give. He is like the ocean -- necessary but often abused and misunderstood, and terribly, terribly lonely. In ‘The Poet and the Pendulum) he musically (literally) kills himself, was giving up, in ‘Dead Boy’s Poem’ he rises from the dead again.

[@101Mant]

Annette did sing that section live although in a much lower key. I've noticed several places in the older songs where Floor sings parts that were left to the backing track by the previous singers. I guess when you can sing pretty much anything...

[@billattercliffe8655]

@@101Mant If I remember correctly, she dropped an octave. Apparently Floor offered to sing all of the boy soprano parts, but Tuomas opted to retain some.

[@lynnlutz9883]

Thank you for researching this song prior to your reaction. You gave perhaps the best explanation and interpretation of this deeply complex and emotional song I've heard yet. After all these years, I still tear up listening to this song every time. Story telling at its best indeed.

[@Korinthe0203]

This is the best analysis of this masterpiece, thank you so much

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

Thank you!

[@Mererid]

This is one of my favorite Nightwish songs. It used to break my heart every time I would listen to it and several lines would get me very choked up. Now, however I see it as a song of strength and hope and I think a lot of this has to do with the fact that I only really started to get into Noghtwish last year, and where the song falls in the discography. It is the first song on the first album without Tarja. It is the long a detailed story of everything Tuomas felt since the letters dropped to the Dark Passion Play album and it is a hell of a deep fall. It is a song that acts as a gateway, or the closing of a book, rather than the first song on an album. That is what happened, this is what I went through, this is where I am at now. The reason it speaks to me of hope, is because Tuomas went through all of that and came out the other side determined to live his life. Because the song released 12 years, I also have the foresight to see the future. I know what the Tuomas who is in pain in that song doesn't know all the greatness that will come for him (as well as some more pain, but life enjoys balance). No matter how much you feel like things aren't going to get better and that the world would be better off without you, the truth is that that is the lie you tell yourself so that your darker thoughts seem justified. You will never fully realize your impact on the world. Maybe you smiled at a stranger, paid for a friend's lunch, helped an elderly person find their lost pet, or commented something positive on a KZbin video. You don't always know the positive impact your life has on others and because your don't have an empirical value for it. You convince yourself it is 0, or worse a negative impact. Don't let your brain lie to you. Call it out on its BS, start actively thinking about the smallest things you did to positively impact someone else or even yourself. Did you shower today? Awesome! Did you move a dish from the pile of dishes in the sink to the dishwasher? One less dish to clean, even if you added 8 more! Did you pick up a can of green beans instead of potato chips? Yay, a small step to being a healthier you, even if you didn'teat the green beans! Ok, this became a tangent. This is a great song, because in the end it is full of hope and promise for overcoming a dark time that you thought was going to swallow you like a wave from the Pacific.

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

I love your tangent, no worries friend. Please keep spreading that idea. All victories are important when you're struggling. Keep on keeping on 💜

[@kennethvannorwick3557]

This analysis goes beyond music. It analyzes the human emotion that both leads to and forms music. Thank you for such an amazing analysis of this work of art.

[@motogpvr_4683]

Один из лучших разборов этой жизненной, эпической баллады Томаса, спасибо. Hi from Belarus

[@scottchadburn1535]

That sir, was magnificent. Bravo, thank you 😊👏🏻 For me that’s the greatest live performance I have ever seen. glad you enjoyed it. 🤘🏻

[@Aity7]

Thanks for this reaction 🙂👍 It's the best analysis I heard of this song. You even explained the meaning of some lyrics like "The shoulders cries more" that I didn't understood. Thank you ☺️

[@clarissasabinomarconi5563]

Hi! I just wanna say that your analysis on this song was amazing...the most complete and deep look of the meaning, the complexity of the feelings that was behind of it... congratulations, awesome video!

[@SarahRichardsGraba]

Thanks for the deep dive on the lyrics! I'm a writer/poet and just love trying to figure out song lyrics, especially ones that aren't so obvious. I loved hearing your reading of this. Looking forward to greatest show on earth! 🤘🏼

[@mpainter22]

A couple of thoughts, the shoulder was Tarja, also my mum died in April last year, I did a 400 mile round trip to be by my sisters side (she found my mum) when I got home I listened to this song and just broke, Toumas, Floor, Marko, Empu, Kai, Troy I owe you a debt

[@German_1]

Love your analysis of this song!

[@thomaslilly9558]

Yep tears in my eyes every time I watch or listen to this one. Wren you understand the context and know the lyrics....It's not a song anymore, it's a piece of art !

[@davehertle]

After I first began to listen to Nightwish, I heard and understood just a little of the real story behind P&P. I waited until I knew the group and individuals better then played it. Your reaction took me even deeper into the lyrics, the emotions, the reality, the complexity of a real life experience. Thank You.

[@jovana_r]

Damn... this was truly emotional... in so many ways... Thank you for this reaction and for all that you said in it. It is really good to hear that there are people who can understand those in pain and give a bit of hope and meaning...

[@reeilona]

I am so glad that I found your channel. You are truly amazing reactor, I learned so much more watching this and I have watched and listened this song SO many times in these years. You totally surprised me with your beautiful, deep analysis. Thank you!

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

Thank you very much!

[@R---66---R]

Masterpiece, my boy! As well as the piece itself! You felt it all and translated it in such beautiful and hopeful words...I take a deep bow!

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

You're too kind sir :)

[@R---66---R]

@@CharlieCalottaReacts No...not at all...you deserve this ;-}

[@bigg2988]

35:24 Well, by the Bible, he places himself as the "righteous robber" - the man who knew what happened to him served him well, but had a last minute remorse and understanding to turn towards God. That is the one, to whom the Saviour said "I tell you, tonight you will be with me in Heaven". Deep and subtle nuances. He relates not to Judas (who hanged himself in despair), but to the villain who faced justice, and accepted, begging for forgiveness.

[@diosyntaxa]

Best reaction to this song so far, which really shows in the length of the video ;) I'll quote someone now, about music, someone I find to be wise beyond her years... "Music is that one companion that will always be there through everything. The one who will know exactly how you’re feeling. Music is passion. Music is hope. Music is life.”. Writing a song about it must be the most creative way ever of dealing with these struggles, and we're blessed for it that he shared it with us. You say Tuomas is a gift, and it's true, and so it Floor, what a combination of talents and skills, really, amazing!

[@willh4764]

My dood this song keeps me alive to this day. Daily suicidal thoughts this helps so much. No relief but gives me a reason to see tomorrow even if I don’t want to.

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

Will, we're here for you. Find that depth and your new shore. There's always help and a hand. You deserve the best, my friend.

[@Musicality-66]

So glad you reacted to this amazing composition. I heard this many times before, but the way you explained the lyrics, became hard for me to watch the whole video. I was looking literally to the ocean as a way out about 5 years ago... Luckily I did find my way back to the shore and now I’m happier than I ever been before. But this song today put me back in time for a short time, so I felt his pain and despair. Thanks Charlie for your open minded approach on the subject of depression and suïcide. 💕🤘

[@natasja1977]

I love your reactions. I hear things that i didn't before because of you. I'm happy to have found you acouple off months ago. I have to figure out how twitch works so i can follow your live.

[@erniedinda509]

Beautiful song, beautiful performance. Loved your analysis and insight on this. Thank you again!

[@darkstar1980]

Thank you for this. I've listened to/watched this performance like 100 times already but I feel like I understand the song and like it even more now that I've heard your breakdown! +1

[@ArtMateurMusic]

Excelente!...Es una cancion triste y caotica, pero es una obra maestra...en mi opinion esta cancion deberia estar en un TOP 3 de las obras maestras del metal!

[@garywillingham3644]

Before you ever started the reaction I was on board you did the right thing exactly this is no headbanging song this is laying your heart out there for all to see GREAT REACTION

[@andrewwilson45]

You're right brother. Tuomas is a genuine gift. This band is a treasure.

[@ebbistrangeling]

that is the most in depth reaction to this masterpiece 🖤 thank you

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

Thank you for that huge compliment Ebbi

[@Trevor21230]

"No more praise, tell me when my heart goes right" is an excellent line. The words of friends, family, and fans telling him that even though it was tough, he made the right decision--they ring hollow to him now. He's so incredibly distraught that he's unable even to fully appreciate the support he *is* receiving. But the one that really gets to me every damn time is "Try to save them all, bleed no more". The first part, you can't please--you can't *save* everybody, is good, but..."Bleed no more" almost feels like Tuomas begging himself to stop feeling this pain. Also, something that really emphasizes Tuomas' complete mastery of lyricism, the line "Second robber to the right of Christ" is intentionally misleading: the first image it invokes is that of the Crucifixion, where Christ was crucified alongside common thieves and robbers--but the text of the Bible does not mention two others to his right--only one. In Leonardo da Vinci's painting of The Last Supper, however, the second person to the right of Jesus is none other than Judas, the Betrayer. I suspect this line was written this way on purpose, with this exact process of initial misinterpretation followed by final understanding in mind. The word "robber" was chosen specifically to lead the mind to the text surrounding the Crucifixion. It's the ultimate lyrical red herring, and it's absolutely brilliant.

[@CharlieCalottaReacts]

I've heard both sides and that's totally valid. Just crazy that judas is second at the right hand of christ in the painting of the last supper. Both readings work in my opinion.

[@KL-qy4ye]

For me, this is the real master work. The one to which I always return. And this is quite some exegesis, Charlie. Thank you.