The lyrics are written entirely in Latin . They are technically a cento —a literary work composed of various quotations from other sources. These include:
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. Elfen Lied Lilium
"Lilium" is Latin for Lily , a flower traditionally symbolizing purity and resurrection. This directly contrasts with the violent, tragic life of Lucy, the series' protagonist. The lyrics are written entirely in Latin
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. tragic life of Lucy