How can music inspire philosophical thinking?
Rhapsody of Fire (formerly known as Rhapsody) is an Italian symphonic power metal band formed by Luca Turilli and Alex Staropoli, widely seen as a pioneer of the symphonic power metal subgenre. I was still in high school when I first started listening to them, after being introduced to their song Emerald Sword from the album Symphony of Enchanted Lands, released in 1998. It was a very fresh sound for me, and I liked how the song made me imagine the story created, just like a book could, but in music.
Why do stories hold such power over us?
Stories have long held some of the most influential power over human beings. This was true when the major religions took root a few thousand years ago, and it remains true today—when politicians try to persuade the public to vote for them, or when elite chairmen deliver a message claiming that laying off thousands of workers is the only way to preserve the company’s integrity, while simultaneously increasing their own revenue and stock value.
Is the good vs. evil narrative shaping our sense of belonging?
Power metal, just like bards in the time of knights, narrates tales of warriors fighting dragons or tyrannical kings. These stories often rely on a binary view of good versus evil, because this framing makes it easier for us to feel emotionally invested. As social creatures, humans often seek to avoid being alone, and one of the simplest ways to connect is to join existing groups. When such a group identifies a clear “enemy,” it becomes even easier to feel a sense of identity within it. Whether supporting a political party, cheering for a football club, or belonging to a luxury car club, the underlying mechanism is the same. This tribal identity is deeply ingrained in us—but awareness of this instinct opens the possibility to build something more authentic. We can choose to reflect and construct a self-defined identity, instead of unconsciously inheriting one.
Can self-awareness reshape the future?
Developing self-awareness is one of the essential keys to reshaping our society. The more individuals who cultivate this capacity—a deeply human skill—the smoother and more peacefully change can unfold. It will be a change rooted not in conflict, but in love-driven actions. As long as we still hold the cards—meaning the ability to think freely and access education—there is hope for a world that leaves behind dystopia, war, and greed. We could finally start unveiling our true potential as a species: one of empathy, compassion, and harmony with the natural world.
What do you think?
Is our identity truly ours, or is it shaped more by the stories we follow than we realize? Let’s discuss in the comments.
#tales-posts
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