The lyrics are written entirely in Latin . They are technically a cento —a literary work composed of various quotations from other sources. These include:
In the context of Elfen Lied , "Lilium" is more than just an opening theme; it is a central narrative device and a thematic anchor.
Within the story, the male protagonist, Kouta, gives a music box playing "Lilium" to Lucy when they are children. This melody serves as a recurring trigger for memories and a symbol of their lost innocence.
The melody takes inspiration from several sources, including passages from Bach and various Renaissance hymns. It utilizes a slow, solemn tempo (Andante) and a minor tonality to evoke a sense of sorrow and sacredness.
The song was designed to sound like a contemporary Gregorian hymn . It features a mezzo-soprano solo (performed by Kumiko Noma) followed by male a cappella voices, a structure that mirrors traditional Catholic liturgical music.
Critics note a powerful juxtaposition (antiphrasis) between the song’s serene, holy character and the extreme physical and psychological violence of the show. It serves to remind the audience of the characters' inherent humanity and potential for purity despite their "monstrous" actions. 3. Visual Artistry: The Klimt Connection