VIKING REACTS | NIGHTWISH - "The Poet and the Pendulum"

[@wekadog7749]

I commend you for being honest and brave enough to share an insight into your journey back to being well. I went thru a similar journey years ago, my wife and my oldest daughter have been fighting thru. We have lost several close friends and family over the years. There has been a really piss-poor culture of "just harden up" in my culture... it fails every time! Nightwish take me on the whole roller coaster journey of stubbornness, denial, anger, resignation, surrender, and finally accepting help, hope and LOVE! I cry every time I listen to this song, in remembrance and in relief! I wish to add support to your comments about showing your other face, seeking out help, falling back on the love and support of family and true friends. To all of you out there suffering in darkness, you will be truly alone, you get safely thru this, there hope! Reach out! Someone take your hand! With love and hope from a Viking Irish Maori.

[@VikingReacts]

And strength to you for sharing this with us. Always keep fighting!

[@mennawaris144]

I wish you well, may future bring you lots oh happiness and love!

[@dennisjanssenvandelaak9298]

To wekadog and the Viking. I have been in very dark places, and sometimes I still visit it. Thank you for your openness. It should be less of an taboo. And i carry my emotions very close to my Chest. Thank you Both for your input. We are not alone. I found this a song to go back in my personal mysery. In a good way. Because I'm back on top. Struggling through a 2 year and over divorce (and before. Ik was left, left broken, but Rediscovering life, liberated) Because I met a woman who grabbed my hand, and showed me what true kindness is, how you should feel loved. The True meaning why you should get out of bed and enjoy life. May you all find such a spark in life. Everybody has Skeletons in his or her closet. Try and find someone who understands you and loves you nevertheless. Ik hated people. Now i love (some) people! Whatever you feel, there are people who feel the same. Stay strong😘

[@WelshCeltic]

No one should even lisren to this song and try to decipher it bro.

[@thadeaquintmaus3763]

A Viking showing his tears and emotions. I feel you so much, Brother! Big Shout-out and HUGS to all sufferers from Depression. I break out into tears every time I listen to this song. And I do a lot, because Tuomas saved my life more than once. He is THE Master of expressing big emotions by perfect music. Hugs and love to Floor as well - your voice is really angelic. LOVE to all of you from Germany!

[@nostrathomas2437]

I usually hold everything together until Floor comes in with the “Tuck me in , Beneath the blue” and of course it’s Floor’s voice so it goes straight to your soul 😇

[@VikingReacts]

Sounds about right :p

[@nostrathomas2437]

@@VikingReacts watching the premiere now and seeing we are kindred spirits .. the exact point where I always lose it.,having battled serious depression after my mother’s death it just hits me every time. I agree with you ... never be afraid to lean on someone and unload that weight as they may need you to return the favor someday. Be well my friend.! BTW ..I think you may have found your calling! ✌️

[@VikingReacts]

I feel the same way! What this channel and community has done for me so far... it's beyond anything I imagined before I started this!

[@black4pienus]

That part and 'mom and dad'. Mom and dad often leaves me in a blubbering mess. lol. I've heard Annette's live version of this song too and I had zero tears. Floor can translate pure emotions into sound and it hits you every time.

[@nostrathomas2437]

@@black4pienus agreed ! I think she feels the emotion when she sings and has a gift that allows her to convey that emotion! I mean clearly she puts a lot of time into her craft but she also has the proverbial “it” that only a very few have. She is such a sweet soul I think that really conveys itself in emotional songs.

[@alexandersomers21]

Floor and her "Brothers" sitting there is one of the best scenes ever ...

[@VikingReacts]

I absolutely loved it :)

[@mgunter]

"Now I have three minutes and counting." 3 minutes later, *guillotine* That's a master composer.

[@Fabi72g]

This song is for sure one of the best ever written, so deep, sad, emotional and.....beautiful. The orchestration is top level, you can feel under the skin Tuomas desperation. And Floor performance is simply something out of this world, she shares all her emotions in every single word. Great reaction Viking, probably the best I ever seen for this song.

[@VikingReacts]

There's a lot of them so this is a huge compliment. But it is just me... being me. I'm just glad people like it :)

[@Fabi72g]

@@VikingReacts It's true, you connected so deeply with the song, and we can only appreciate that. I hope all is going well in your life, stay strong.

[@HesterWijnen]

​@@VikingReacts you being you is exactly what is so precious about your reactions. You're holding a mirror to us all and are reflecting a perfect blend of the feelings coming from these wonderfull artists and yourself, which make sense and relate to most of us. So please, stay 'you being you'. PS. This is the first time I ever reacted on YT ;)

[@JaneDoe-ge5di]

@@VikingReacts sorry for being late but i must prepare my mind a little bit. It s not reverse i think. The last part is the new beginning after Toumas overcomes his depression. It sounds so peaceful after tearing up! Really one of the best reactions to this song! Stay well

[@sandrakortbawy]

No matter how many times i listen to this song i still cry like it's my first time because i am a person who is still dealing with depression and anxiety it's really not something to just ignore without looking for help and it made me happy to know you overcame your depression. Thank you for this reaction it was really needed❤️❤️

[@Greyhound53200]

Then I really hope the song is uplifting and healing for you, Sandra. It would be a bad thing if it draws you further into your depression. Always remember that you're worth to be loved and appreciated, especially by yourself. Be well !

[@sandrakortbawy]

@@Greyhound53200 Thank you so much ❤️❤️ it actually is uplifting for me it's the only song that when i listen to i can just let it all out it does give me hope for better days

[@norahagberg9897]

@@sandrakortbawy Same. I also struggle with anxiety and depression. And this song is kind of comforting in a way because Nightwish is also one of the first band i started listening to when i was younger. So this song makes me feel better.

[@sandrakortbawy]

@@norahagberg9897 I really hope you are doing better in these times that we live in.. There is also the new song "music" from their new album: All the works of nature which adorn the world, i also listen to this on repeat it's very therapeutic. Hope u r having a good day❤️❤️❤️

[@Greyhound53200]

I've always wondered how Floor must feel while performing this song. Be reminded that she came out of a burnout bordering depression when she was asked to replace Anette.

[@JariJuslin]

I've heard she has said she cannot look at Tuomas when performing this song because she would break.

[@johnnyrogers8866]

@@JariJuslin 😮 I've always noticed but paid no attention to this detail... Thank you for the insight

[@samuelmalsawmkima6905]

As much as i love Nightwish, sometimes i cant listen to this song, i cannot stand the emotion. One of the best song ever written.

[@deed5811]

The saddest song Nightwish has done so far. I can only imagine how Tuomas felt feeling that fans, the media and even the Finnish government attacked him over the situation with Tarja.

[@VikingReacts]

It must have torture actually. I don't think I want to try and imagine it actually.

[@katy9291]

Why cant i find anything on this?

[@gillandianyt3920]

@@katy9291 If you really want to, search for Nightwish letter to Tarja, and her reply and press conference. They both had valid points, but Tarja needed to look after her voice, or it would be over, the pressures of being on tour, night after night. Tuomas didn't like to hear that she might leave with a days notice, especially when she didn't seem to take any notice of rehearsals. She ended up travelling separately from the band to protect her voice from cigarette smoke...

[@FlyingPadovani]

@@gillandianyt3920 according to the band there was a lot more than that too

[@lunaalana5208]

I loved your reaction. This is a hard and difficult song, emotionally. Seeing Tuomas' face when he sings along at the end.... It always breaks me.... I'm suffering with depression myself... I've had a shitty life so far, and had several plans and attempts to take my own life from the age of 8, and till I was 17... Something changed me at that time. I was still heavily depressed, but I found a new strength, and swore I would never commit suicide no matter how hard it got. I would fight, and I would survive. I feel for you, for Tuomas, and all others fighting depression. There's no greater battle, no greater enemy, than against your own mind... I saw another reactor, who also fights depression, and he said that The Dark Passion Play part was when Tuomas finally had decided to kill himself, the drums was like his heart racing, that almost ecstatic feeling you get when you get that far... And those fading heartbeats as he dies..... And then he's at his parents, them taking care of him, almost has the feeling of him being in heaven, and being reborn or revived at the same time. I'm just rambling right now, so I better stop... We're all here for you. ❤️

[@VikingReacts]

Power to you m'lady 💪. I loved reading this. It takes a strong person to turn their life around in the way you did. Good for you. This whole community is already helping a lot. Thanks for that!

[@lunaalana5208]

@@VikingReacts And thank you, for opening up with us, showing us emotions, telling us about your experiences. That may save a life one day, and that makes you an amazing person. 😊

[@tiffymcconkey]

Watching him through out breaks my heart every time. I can't imagine the pain

[@Thorgrim247]

During this song, Tuomas requests that the vocals are removed from his monitor sound. It is still very emotional for him to hear these lyrics. "The Pacific" is the part where he accepts his situation and what needs to be done. This composition takes a song to the level of musical art! Masterpiece! Nightwish may never play this song live again? So happy to hear you have your depression under control, for now! Be well my Viking friend. Peace in your soul. 🙏🙏🙏✌

[@jasonoverman9679]

I've heard that he didn't do that this time and hasn't since and that was why they kept checking on him

[@rg8829]

Check every Friday Floor’s comedy hour....her smile cures everything

[@gtdriver2416]

I cry every time at the "you have such oceans within" line. Always

[@Jason_xofilos]

Same here. 😢😭

[@Hienonen]

Me too.

[@DoubtThou]

Same!

[@linagantz1226]

I feel you. Me too

[@emilwillems]

In the end I will always love you

[@bondomu]

This song saved me during some of my darkest hours. Nightwish has literally saved my life in the past. I often can’t listen to Nightwish without having an emotional reaction. My heart goes out to you, my friend, and I am so happy to hear that you are on a road to recovery. You are so right when you say that depression is no joke.

[@mamavswild]

Nightwish has saved my life too, take care!

[@lawrencewalston2272]

There's no shame in crying. My Dad always said that tears are a lubricant for the soul. As someone who worked through a really nasty bout of depression a couple years ago, I get how this song resonates with you. I'm just grateful that you are doing better. Best wishes to you, sir.

[@melissa5891]

I barely comment on KZbin videos, but i felt like commenting on this one. I dont know why i want to share this but well. When I first started listening to nightwish, I just never came across this song. Than I started watching interviews, and I heard Tuomas say: in Poet and the Pendulum, I literally kill myself so I wouldn't have to do that in real life. That made me on purpose skip this song. I've lost (too) many friends to suicide. I have more friends battling or who have battled depression, than friends who don't. I have been at really dark places myself. And looking back at what I've been through so far, I sometimes wonder how I got through it. I see the topic of this song, as a trigger for me. Even without knowing the context for specifically Tuomas (which I got to know when I started listening to this song). At some point I felt ready for the song and put it on. First listen, I cried so badly. And I still do. This is the only song that can make me feel those shit, dark feelings I've had, which I try to push aside so desperately. That I try to hide from everyone, even myself (impossible, I know) Now I'm fine, still have some triggers but ever since moving out and finding real, caring friends, my thoughts haven't been as dark as they were a few years ago. Wanna end with a thank you, from a fellow Dutchie, for your emotional, powerful reaction. I'm glad you're here and I'm proud you've battled through the shit thing called depression!

[@fearmac]

Such an honest reaction. Thank you.

[@KristiinaBerg]

"Whore for the cold world" in the context what happened refers IMO to the Finnish media which unleashed their fury on Tuomas. They were also the ones who were feasting like crows on the carcass of a poet. Of course it can take other meanings when you apply it to your experience. This composition is quite an experience. Who else in the metal/rock/pop/classical genre has produced something equivalent to this in the last twenty years? (You know your Bible well by the way!) Interesting that you mentioned Robin Williams, I have often thought about him.

[@wouterb9996]

Thnx Viking. Wise words. Strikes me that reactors who are familiar with depression (either themself or a close relative) and its effects immidiatly click into the meaning behind the lyrics. Good to see/hear you found a track top put your life on (And offering to help others, respect). Stay on track. Rode and Stay safe.

[@heedoei]

This gets you every time, believe me, I saw this video at least 20 times and I can’t look at it without tears..stay safe🙏🏼

[@Rancid-Jane]

Yes. I have lost count of number of listens and still I sob.

[@TJMiton]

The Pacific secion gets me every single time, there's no holding that raw beauty and emotion back. And I have no idea how many countless times I've heard this performance.

[@fordonmekochgalenskaper5665]

The song is a masterpiece, but I also can understand that it is hard for Thomas to play it, he's hoppfully more happy now than when he wrote the song

[@MariaMaria-le5cz]

You feel and know exactly the meaning of this song. Thank you so much for your honest reaction, very strong🙏

[@dirkdorner701]

I write this comment at time stamp 2:22. This song will not kick you back into depression, it will erase the last bit of it that might still be in you (and that is not true, of course, depression will always be a part of your life). And I am very happy for you, that you have fought deprssion, still fighting it a bit, probably, but winning the fight. On that note, you might still loose a battle or two, but that does not matter at all, because you will win the war. And that is what counts. That is what Tuomas did, what this song is about. You fight that war against overwelming enemy power and in the end you will win. Now I can't wait any longer to watch your video. Stay safe and stay strong Dirk

[@Mondhase2000]

Each time I am listening to this song, I am so happy that Tuomas made this song instead of committing suicide, which was his first intention. I am crying a river each time I hear it. That's the most personal song I have ever heard😭😭😭💖

[@ciskavandevijver2355]

the most emotional song ever. still every time tears appear and don't hold back. F#ck it. great reaction again viking. Skol.

[@philipbaker5386]

Thank you for everything, especially the post-reaction on depression. There is no one cure-all to battle depression, and it impacts everyone differently. The stigma on mental heath (at least here in the US) is so disheartening that many individuals will prefer to "tough it out' than to seek help. "One for the world"- the game face that we put out to show that we are fine. "One for God"- our inside voice eating away at us, putting us into that awful mindset of Self Doubt. When good people like you and Floor have become open about the battle with depression, I feel it helps remove some of the Stigma, it saves lives. Depression for me never went away and I have battled it off and on for over 30 years. I have thankfully been able to see it coming and know who to talk to to prevent it from driving me down those darkest paths. Keep up the good fight- and know that I am sure many of us here (or in Discord) are there for you as well if (and when) you need us as well.

[@marianogonzalez1977]

Your final reflection seems brilliant to me, everything you talk about depression. I am very glad that you enjoyed it. By the way, in my view the song starts with "The end" and ends with "The beginning" because all of it is a transition from an "End of an era" to a "New era" and he emerges changed from this troubled times.

[@leftyme4568]

The "Sparkle my scenery" part was when Tuomas had big trouble composing because of his depression. Like he is talking to himself.

[@marcel021065]

I think the 200 time i hear this song, every time my hart breaks and emotions hit hard, thanks for reacting to this one, always good to see its not only me that feels this one.

[@MADNarrativeFlow]

Your interpretations and personal experience you brought into the narrative made this my favorite reaction ever to this song. Depression runs in my family, and almost everyone in my family has had experiences with it both large and small. This song is very special for me, and you did this masterpiece justice beyond justice. There are a few things I want to bring up about the performance. The heartbeats are Tuomoas dying. His heart beats 3 times and then dies mid-beat in the 4th. Lastly, the only part in the song that Tuomas sings along with is the "Mother and Father" section. He even has the lyrics for this song removed from his in-ears, and yet he still sung to this section. That to me signals that this is the most important part of the song both for him and for its message to us. The people around you love you, and it is okay and vital to rely on that love to get through the darkest and most difficult of times.

[@VikingReacts]

That last bit you mention about him singing along to the most important section... is exactly why I was unable to talk there. It portrays to the letter what I wanted to tell everybody. Thank you for this comment! I am happy to see that you approve of my interpretation :)

[@JimGames]

Great reaction. Stay strong brother.

[@runkkariruune]

Greetings from Finland! A great reaction and powerful, wise words. We finns know something about depression, even as the most happiest country we are, so they say. Unemployment, booze, the axe and family; the sins of our fathers call from underground. It is heavy, but we can smile through the tears. Thank You and keep on reacting!!!

[@VikingReacts]

I've heard other mention this as well. Life can be a struggle... keep fighting as it can be so worth it!

[@GWDH19]

Best reaction ever to this song. Thank you

[@yourwinefamily1939]

Opening Section : Lead boy soprano: Guy Elliott; later on spoken part about Tuomas erased text: is 2nd boy soprano: Tom Williams, both courtesy of the Reigate St Mary's Choir School

[@callumhart3716]

Thank you so much for doing this reaction. I was in the crowd that night and I was in tears for half of that song. It hits you in a special way

[@vampiricunicorn791]

@Vicking Reacts Thank you. I have seen multiple reactions to this song, but you are the first one I've seen that can truly understand the depth of emotions that this song comes from and explain it to everyone. Depression is no joke, and this coming from someone who has suffered silently for years with it.... to the point that when I finally told my doctor about it, he said I had depression burnout. I am slowly recovering. I'm to the point that I finally have tears come when I feel something. I am glad that you have reached a place in your recovery that you can feel good about yourself. Take care, and I look forward to your next video.

[@vickieeh1]

I don’t think you can ever be fully prepared for this song. Great news on your mental health, depression has been a struggle for me since I was 10, but I’m still here

[@marcelrenes2435]

I feel you my friend. Don't you ever hide your emotions while reacting! This is the best reaction I've seen.👍 I suffered from a severe depression for 4 years. I lost my job and now I get jobs for mostly a year at most. I attemped suïcide 3 times. Luckily I am glad I'm still here. I cry everytime when I hear this 'song'. It saddens me but I deeply know the meaning. Espcially with Mother and Father. Now I'm better I live everyday to the fullest. Greetings from another Dutchmen. ❤

[@bridgetmccracken1381]

No one was blameless in the break up. both sides had a hand in it, That being said, this song always gets to me because of Floor giving life to Tuomas's pain.

[@chadbennett7873]

A most excellent reaction to this complicated and brilliant laying out of one's soul in music. Nice catch on the three minutes. What is most amazing, beyond the precise composition of such a feat, is that they performed it live to the second. Now I'm sure they had to play to a click track to execute it, but who the hell else could do so but Nightwish? Such an incredible tear-jerker in so many ways, and how grateful I am that he did this in song only. We are sensitive creatures, so often tied up in our own emotions and issues that we forget everybody dear to us are dealing with their own. No matter how brave and strong we act, we still feel. Nobody is completely numb to world around us, and I have found it takes very little effort to be kind to people, even those we don't know. It doesn't cost anything to smile to others, it doesn't cost anything to say a kind word ... and though we may never see the effect it can have, it can be the one thing in that day that saves a person from serious pain. We have the choice in our hands. Thank you for a touching and meaningful reaction to this important and brilliant song. You are so right, Nightwish are our friends, they are family and we care about how they are doing. I can only hope that Marko is doing well, he is such a remarkable soul.

[@danielnystrom7310]

Someone said when its "three minutes and counting" and thomas make the "slit throat" is 3 minutes exactly. Not sure as ive not timed it. Great reaction again beard brother. Keep them coming ❤

[@572Btriode]

It is. Tuomas attention to detail. As ever.

[@danielnystrom7310]

@@572Btriode yeah he is an amazing person. Im sort of glad he went thru what he did for this song, but i dont wish it on anyone due to the hate he got for it all. Im glad he is still here making amazing music

[@572Btriode]

@@danielnystrom7310 Pip Williams, who scores for the London Philharmonic Orchestra that Tuomas always works with, is on video saying Tuomas is a genius, that's good enough for me. I am forever grateful that he decided to write his suicide to music and ultimately not for real, which would have been a monumental loss. And grateful also to be alive in the times of his music too.

[@isragat]

Really one of the more intelligent and sensitive reactions to this piece of art (calling it a song is an understatement). Respect to you & your channel! Thank you very much.

[@morgana001]

The last Part always gets me..it gets me hard. I battled Depression and Anxiety myself, and ...the Mothers Words kind of crush me and heal me at the same time, because how can you accept such beautiful words if you hate yourself and belive that you might not deserve them. At the same time, to hear it, opens you up to accepting yourself...and loving yourself again. Thank you for you wonderful reaction to this amazing piece of Art and I don't know if it means much from a stranger in the Internet, but to come back to peace with yourself is not an easy battle and will it never be, you can be proud.

[@stups9975]

This song just takes you on a journey and the emotions always surface. No matter how many times you listen to it ... it always hits you. I listened to it countless times and I still feel it.

[@johannessilver8653]

True and genuine reaction to this one...all the best for you personally. You understand him and his situation in 2005 better than many other by experience. They were close friends from childhood and the guiding light of the Night moon chose them Once. This is so emotional for them all (specially for him) and you noted also the performance and those details in the show which are true and all members are so much in the issue. Tuomas has said that it was difficult to put out his pain by talking and instead he wrote this masterpiece which saved him mentally if not from actual suicide. Good that you also did homework cause it is difficult to understand the meaning and grandeur of this song properly without.

[@Wollie1979]

WOW! This was by far the best authentic reaction on this M A S T E R P I E C E ....and Ive seen a lot already 👍🏻👍🏻🤟🏼🤟🏼

[@Raptor577]

This song helped me make a lot of progress during therapy. Floor's notes in the last part resonated with my heart and shattered me like a wine glass.

[@liinukka3109]

I’ve seen reactions to this song dozens of times and cried every time. So now. It feels like I could just look at the best response to this song. THANK YOU @VikingReacts ❤.

[@SpookyBunch]

If I ever need to let go and have a good cry from holding it in too long... I listen to this song. The lyrics and Floors voice are just so powerful. Every song they have makes you feel so many emotions, ESPECIALLY this song right here!

[@wabbajack9331]

Thank you soo much for this message about deppression. I've gone through a whole lot myself. I went from own appartment, working in a labratory through the suicide of my dad, getting kicked out from my girlfriend, abandoned by my mother to homeless, left with 2 bags of clothing. I recoverred, i worked hard i stood at the edge of my life more than ones in that time. But i did it. I almost paid of all my depts, i gathered some new friends, so to everyone: It is hard but there is a way. Don't give up on you. It won't be easy but say to yourself "I'm neither" Don't let it get you, don't let it overwhelm you. Be strong! Again, thank you for this great reaction video. I am a 1,87m (6"2) big guy, tattoed, bald with beard, riding motorcycle but still got the same damned ninjas cutting onions here next to me.....but i enjoyed it very much.

[@markhopkinsjr4342]

I have listened to this song many many times and even though I knew what it was about, I really never read the lyrics and just listened to the music, however, getting context from somebody else and seeing the emotion it brought out of you while also reading the lyrics on the screen. I got a bit emotional as well. It just shows how powerful music is and how the same song can have different impacts on different people and the same song can have different impacts on the same person with a little bit of context. Great Reaction brother. \m/

[@user-Rockmagix]

Brother - I really loved to have more guys like you in our todays cold world. The way you took the chance to show your own way thru an obviously very very hard and heartbreaking time made me feel a bit happy to never have been in a situation like this and gave me an experience about this stuff. So I truly thank you for your comment and even your tears, that I think are more than understandable. Hold on to the precious Nightwish family. YOU are also not alone!

[@MustaLaatta]

this song has in fact saved those, who were thinking of taking their own life -. like me. Think how final it is and what it causes to those who are left behind? One still have so much ahead, good moments and appointment...

[@lynnlutz9883]

As I always say during reactions to this song, I have heard this song over 50 times now. Each time it brings tears to my eyes. This is truly a masterpiece that ranks up there with anything the classical masters have ever written.

[@lylo2405]

Can I just say how much I appreciate the way you reacted to this song? I struggled with depression most of my life and I still do. It's an ongoing battle for me, but I'm still here, still fighting, partly because of that song. It meant a lot to me when it first came out on the album, sung by Anette, but then I heard this version and it fully brought me into a place where I could finally seek help. Having Floor's voice tell me "You have such oceans within" saved my life. Hearing you speak about your own struggle, so honestly here on such a platform, means a lot. So, thank you for that and for this wonderful reaction.

[@brianalmeida1964]

No amount of preparation ever really gets you ready for a first listen! Great reaction. Stay safe 🤘✌

[@andyohil7465]

During the song, Emppu and Marco went to Toumas - only to see if he is ok... it’s very emotional for him... but every time I watch this vid - it hit me totally.... hopefully you left your depression behind 👍🏆

[@fortuna7469]

Congratulations, I'm so happy for you that you survived your depression! Thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge with us. Stay strong bro!

[@teemuhellman9271]

Lyrics in Mother And Father are partly what Tuomas's mother said to him when he was in a deep depression after disposing Tarja Also I think everyone keeps a face for the world and a different one for themselves

[@PaulBosenJr]

Outstanding reaction!... I knew this was gonna be a rough ride for you brother, cause I've been in that place too, and this song is always brutal honesty to listen to. Stay strong, keep riding!...

[@esthersalari8080]

I feel you Viking. So strong of you to tell us your own personal story. I live with 3 people ( husband and 2 of my children) battling depression among other things. This song tears me up everytime I hear it because it comes so close to my own personal life. Floor's singing does not make it easier but so much beautiful. Thank you for putting the spotlight on mental health here. So much needed 💞💞

[@ToniJauhiainen]

I cried with you friend! This is one the most powerful songs from Nightwish in my opinion. They have many really great songs for different moods, but this is deepest and rarest song. Thank you for your emotions!!!

[@sonjaschweinsberger1637]

i love the humble Thank you from Floor ....great reaction

[@frenkwd1]

I cried when I first heard this. It does touch your soul and your heart.

[@jemrockton]

Thank you so much for your openness and the authenticity of the reaction. Struggling with depression myself as well since I was pregnant 13 years ago. Two or three times, I was all the way down. I hit the bottom and couldn't get up on my own anymore. So, this reaction (and your interpretation of the song) means a lot to me. Thank you again and keep on fighting! PS: I think you brought me deeper into Nightwish. Thank you for this as well!

[@VikingReacts]

I am just glad to see this comment. You are talking about a pretty heavy subject to a relative stranger yet on a very public platform. You keep on fighting yourself. Life has so much to give yet and it would be a shame to not live it to our fullest potential. And getting you deeper into Nightwish... Awesome result!

[@jemrockton]

Definitely, yes! I take vocal lessons hoping to be able to sing in a metal band one day. When it comes to interpretations, I'm "stupid", that is, I can't do them. Your text interpretation was really, really good. You pointed out what the song is about in a few sentences.

[@acontadogui]

Great reaction man. This is what NW does to us. Deep emotions, we feel that much because it's so relatable. It's a paradox because it's painful yet so relieving. Lots of respect to you for this reaction. I really wish you the best in handling your depression, it's no joke, like you said. Have a great weekend Cheers from 🇧🇷🇧🇷

[@adlicious100]

You've just did the most Brilliant reaction ever for me ... thanks Bro 💎💥🙏🏼

[@VikingReacts]

Well thank you for that :). I am glad you liked it!

[@michaelbacon4834]

Thanks so much for sharing your story of depression. The way you felt this song and your reaction was so much deeper for those of us who suffer from depression. It's a lifelong battle. Tuomas is such a genius...it's CRAZY!!!

[@Hollow78One]

Thank you! Best reaction to this song I've seen yet. I had many of the same reflections when I first saw this performance. It is so so powerful, especially when one can relate to the topic.

[@jessicakoster2543]

Depression is a sneaky bitch. It's really good to hear you have been working through your problems. Mental health issues kind of run in my family, but I was always the 'stable' one. The one who sails through life unscathed, who everyone could rely on. Until I had a baby and everything went to hell. It hits you twice as hard when you don't see it coming. It's one of the hardest battles a person has to fight. So, be very proud of yourself.

[@Musicality-66]

Great to hear you recovered from your depression. Listening to Nightwish for the last year and a half did wonders for my own mental health. Keep going strong and take good care of yourself. Love from a Dutch lady. 💕🤘

[@olgaamaranth5249]

I just want to leave a dikke knuffel to all who need it.

[@10animallover10]

I second that. Bring it in, everyone who needs it! *virtual hug*

[@martinehermans6661]

so do I, here it comes (and a knuffel to you too)

[@the_curious_one]

Great reaction, Viking. Thank you.

[@stevehill9167]

You’re one awesome guy mate, this is the most brave and honest and emotive response and reaction I’ve ever seen to this song. Well done for your progress and for moving past your struggle and well done for this reaction. Your words may help someone else too. Much respect my friend. 🤘🏻👊🏻

[@PaulSmith-pt3zu]

First off congrats on the battle of depression as I too went thru my bought a few yrs back. Still relapse here and there but I hope to god it doesn’t return in its worst form. It’s not a place we need to be and I know you know what I’m saying. That said we’re moving forward to happier thinking and ways of life to hopefully never return to the darkness again. Secondly this song is something I’ve never heard from any other band. Tuomas had gone thru some serious 💩 to write such a song. Since hearing this it’s my whole heartedly single song that I completely connect with from start to finish. As I fully understand each part Tuomas had gone thru and brings me to tears by the end each and every time I listen to it. This is a masterpiece beyond any other song written and I hope anyone that does listen to it agrees. Oh ya I forgot to say NW was the sole reason I didn’t go deeper into depression as I found new hope to one say day see this band live in concert to experience there passion for music. Which was all the medicine I needed to be happy once again 🍻🥂 to a happier healthy mind and body

[@amygoodson-catlady]

Thank you, friend, for addressing your depression. I too, have issues...but an amazing therapist who began listening to Linkin Park songs as a way of really expressing hidden truths...now she is using them to help other patients, and their loved ones to better understand. Music is also therapy for me, and I set out to view every Rammstein (they make me happy) reaction on KZbin. From that...I stumbled upon Nightwish. I'm no trained singer, but I taught myself to sing this song. Yes, the breath control is difficult, but I've mastered it (proud!). Next up for me is learning Marco's vocal acrobatics on Ghost River...and I'm having FUN! The music makes me so happy...but seeing the reactions...brings me so much JOY! When you are low...try to remember whatever brings YOU JOY! the Nightwish Army (Palm Springs, CA, USA) is here for you!

[@VikingReacts]

I am glad to see you have found something to cope as well :). I am generally a happy and positive guy so it hit real hard when I had to admit that i wasn't that guy anymore at some point. ADHD doesn't help either by the way ;) Comments like these make it all worth the effort! Thanks for that!

[@amygoodson-catlady]

@@VikingReacts sadly, we'll always have highs and lows, but isn't building a supportive community important? It took me until I started watching reactions and commenting...then getting a response, til I saw the true value of what we are both doing! Reach our anytime, friend. Stay safe and Happy Holidays!

[@mushymarlin]

I think I have seen just about every single "reaction" to this song, and yours is right up there with the best! FYI you were right about the bible "2nd robber" reference. Tuomas is an absolute genius composer, Floor is a Vocal Godess. Her abity to portray emotion and story telling through sound has really made some of Tuomas' work come alive. This song is a prime example! Tarja and Tuomas were friends right from childhood which is one of the reasons it hit him hard, the "split" was a national sensation with even the prime minister at the time getting involved. The media (and some of the "fans") were the "crows" feeding on the rotting poet in this song, they gave him ALOT of backlash over the split. There is so much in this one song, I've yet to see any single "reaction" pick up everything. Sadly we will never hear the band perform this song again, Tuomas has said he is no longer in that dark place and Marko has also retired too.

[@paolorao8308]

you are one of the many hearts of the Nightwish Army. one kiss from Italy

[@phils866]

Best reaction I have yet seen to The Poet and the Pendulum. The fact you suffered from depression makes your comments more valid. And the pauses didn't annoy me at all. Performance wise, the whole band were on top of their game, and the part where Floor comes in with her ethereal tones gets me, every time. You can tell the band do not treat this composition lightly. It is one of their more sombre performances, but that is fitting.

[@GWDH19]

This was The poet and the pendulum ;)

[@phils866]

@@GWDH19 Brain fart on my part! Duly edited. :-)

[@warwickeioncampbell4737]

When I see them sitting down, I like to think they are saying we have your back.

[@martijnvanzuilen941]

Think that if Floor wasn't the singer, this song hasn't and will never made the setlist. Also I still have the feeling that Floor's past has made her singing more "angry" at parts, knowing she lost her baby After Forever which resulted in her burn-out, before she joined NW. Great reaction And to all you: it isn't a weakness to ask for help wenn you're having problems, any problems.

[@laatdovahkiin7405]

Skäl!!! It is an emotional song. Great Reaction. Glad you got a clean bill of health mentally 👍💪

[@arianealexandre9038]

I cried with you bro. This song is so cathartic...

[@EllenM1967]

I understand every one of your emotions. Thanks for sharing 💕

[@TKirahvi2]

I have watched many reactios to this song and I think this was the best one. Great background work, interpreting and showing feelings. Thanks

[@jondrenth1550]

What an emotional, great reaction. Every word I want to write is already posted here. I subscribed, looking forward for the next one. Greetings from The Nederlands

[@VikingReacts]

Groeten terug! Bedankt voor je reactie :). Ik ben blij dat je het kon waarderen. Groeten uit Amsterdam ;)

[@jondrenth1550]

@@VikingReacts Hahahaha kleine wereld. Woon in de buurt.

[@VikingReacts]

@@jondrenth1550 Technisch gezien woon ik ook niet in Amsterdam zelf maar in een plek vlakbij maar dat hoeft niet iedereen te weten :P

[@GWDH19]

@@VikingReacts Waarom praat je nooit Nederlands tijdens je reacties? Misschien 1 Nederlands zinnetje bij The Greatest show on earth? ;)

[@VikingReacts]

@@GWDH19 ik heb in 1 van de filmpjes wat nederlands gesproken. Moet alleen even achter mijn oren krabben welke dat was

[@xhighone]

Ohh boy. 1. I'm extremely happy you have gotten better. Srsly i'm rooting for you. 2. The idea to celebrate with this song and with us is a very cool idea and i appreciate you. This made me like you even more than I did before. 3. Your best reaction I've seen and in my top 5 NW reactions all time of the many I've seen. Hands down. I'm binging your NW reactions now and there isn't a bad one in the bunch. I'm pretty sure this is the best P&tP reaction I've seen and that's saying something because I've seen most of them and there are a lot of good ones. You're a treat to watch... keep it up man. Big fan.

[@magnusblendulf3081]

This was the best reaction i have ever seen 👍🤘 Stay safe and have a damn good day 😁

[@jps342]

I've seen lot and lots of voice coach's,, music teachers and even composers react to this song, BUT your the only one who's picked up on every separate part and it's reason why its there and done how it is done, sung how It's sung ect. Agree, Tuomas IS a genius, a very very underrated musical genius, Every note of every song he writes as a very strong specific meaning on it's own, Nightwish don't just play music what they do is on a level on it's own, I commend you in truly understanding the depth of their magical performance's

[@elianaegomez8646]

Congrats Viking! 🎉🎉 I'm happy for you!! 👏👏👏 Keep healty!! The reaction was amazing, thank you!!! 🤗🤗

[@TeemarkConvair]

thank you for your openness, i am sure it was not an easy thing to release. by far yours has been the most vulnerable reaction i have seen. i commend you on your strength. this fantastic writer brings out the dept of human feelings...

[@Komischer0815nick]

Man... I just saw you react to this masterpiece and when you started talking about your "two faces", you always being the happy one... I was done... I struggled through my own depression over the course of years and only in 2019 I realized I needed help. By that time I already had lost my job, my girl and preetty much everthing I owned. I was as low as you could get. And then I finally got off my ass and got help. My therapists and my closest friends literally saved my life back then and I wouldn't wanna know how I would've handled the shithole of a year that was 2020 otherwise... The lockdowns and everything, that's enough to break anbody. Tonight I shall raise my horn to you and everyone else out there who is either struggling through this shit, already has or eventually will. You might feel like it, but you are NOT alone. If we could beat this, so will you. Big love from Berlin XOXO

[@opaman4847]

Great reaction, thanks! I've been living with depression for ten years now. It's not easy. All the best!!!

[@squalllionheart3453]

Im crying too man,your not alone,great reaction

[@thedisabledwelshman9266]

if there is a cure for depression then this song is it.

[@themplar]

works to. But Dopomines, endorfines, serotonines, oxytocins work pretty good.

[@markvanderhoek1750]

Every time I listen to this song I end up with tears in my eyes. GREAT REACTION Viking !!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@ristohyvarinen8448]

This is a sad, emotional song, which goes straight to your heart. Tuomas had a huge anxiety after Tarja had been fired and all that negative feedback fell on him. This song reflects those feelings he had. In one interview he said he had to kill himself through this song to get over and recover. Sometimes when you think someone somewhere has experienced hard times and creates this kind of song, people listen it, get tears in their eyes and might recover the same way as Tuomas did. With that music. So much pain, so much relief. And at the end mother and father, beloved people near you give hope and forgiveness. Wonderful masterpiece.

[@klaushohmann1101]

By far your best and most honest reaction.Thank you for that!