Nightwish - "The Poet and the Pendulum" - Reaction 

I wanted to let you all know that I was okay. After shutting down the video, I had myself a pretty good cry. I couldn't even bring myself to talk about what I was feeling and thinking at the end of the video. The pain that Tuomas went through was literally unbearable and I felt it to my soul. I am still sad to know that he, or any human being, would ever be in that dark of a place. I am grateful he has moved past that into lighter, happier days. I expected this to hit me emotionally but not quite as hard as it did. I also know I said I didn't even want to upload it but I'm better with that now. I'm not happy about it but I'm at peace with it. I am certainly grateful Tuomas did this through his music instead of in his actual life. He is a deep soul, like the ocean he loves so much. I'm much of the same with the ocean as he is and hearing the waves of the ocean tonight will have a different feel for me. These are the things I would have said at the end of the video but I couldn't. I hope you understand.

No matter how many times I watch this, seeing Tuomas mouth "try to save them all, bleed no more" just guts me every single time....

This is not a song it’s someone’s heart being shattered into a million pieces a beautiful masterpiece and rightfully they confined it to just a few performances. It’s both tragic and perfect all in the one

Thank you for a beautiful reaction. If it helps, I am a 75 year old ex Special Forces, retired law enforcement officer and I am not ashamed to admit this masterpiece has moved me to tears on more than one occasion.

And you have reached the deepest part of the nightwish rabbit hole. There isn't much you can say after listening to this once you know the meaning. Floors high falsetto makes me cry every time.😭😭😭

I can’t think of a better singer to perform this song for Tuomas. Not only because of Floor’s vocal abilities, but because of her ability to portray the emotions as well. She really is an amazing performer, and I’m so glad she was able to connect with Nightwish and bring such memorable music to us.

My mother to passed from Parkinson's at the height of the COVID Lockdowns, I could not travel to attend her funeral due to the travel restrictions. I was unemployed and had just recently lost my cat to a stroke. This song and the new Human | Nature Album saved my soul from the deepest despair of my life.

Debbie, you might want to watch "7 Days to the Wolves" at Wembley next. You will see the biggest smile on Tuomas' face when he watch's Floor sing. He is in a happy place now. And he's windmilling so much at the end I was so afraid his keyboard was going to fall over. We all have our dark times and places but Tuomas has come through his and has created some of his best music ever. He has come out of his dark time and has risen like a phoenix!

You don't just listen to Nightwish. You FEEL their songs. And you reflect on them. And carry them in your mind and soul for life. That is what makes Nightwish special. And now you are ready for The Greatest Show on Earth, from Wembley. That song/performance will make you part of the Nightwish Army 🏴‍☠ as so many before you, and som many after you.

Thankyou so so much for your sincere, genuine reaction to this masterpiece..I have seen so many reactors saying , "what a nice song, not sure what it was about though ", really !!!!! What you really bring to your channel Debbie is sincerity, honesty, & above all raw emotion, this performance does not happen often, & on behalf of the Nightwish Army, we all thankyou for the utmost love & respect that you have given to this timeless & emotional performance.....

Tuomas can write music that touches your heart, and floor can interpret what he writes, the rest of the band connects it all, a sad story, a beautiful song God bless

You remember I told you Metal gives you an avenue to express things you normally can't... all the emotions, the passion, the pain, the fury, the joy, everything. You just ran face first into the greatest example I have seen of just that. Don't worry we all cry during this... I have watched this song hundreds of time... cry every time.

I've seen it a gazillion times with a lot of reactors and I can quite confidently say that you've shown THE most respect and emotion for the song that I've seen on RU-vid! It's an extremely emotional song - as I come from London, all I can say is that I'm gutted I missed this concert at Wembley in 2015 because I didn't get into them until early 2020. Pity you don't live in London, I would've gladly given you my spare ticket as my Brother couldn't make it for the Nightwish show (again at Wembley) in November 2022. Take good care of yourself 😃

The most beautiful line in this song - “Search for beauty, find your shore” - is what Tuomas was eventually able to do. I think these words should be in everyone’s toolbox of life. Your reaction was very well done; and yes, every time I hear this song, I cry.

You, my friend, are a special soul. You feel the music. Thank you for sharing your Nightwish journey.

Sweetheart, you always show respect for the Nightwish songs and we love you in that you react truly and honestly to all music. Keep on doing what you are doing. -Much love from the Midwest

This band unites and heals their fans because they allow us to share in their journey in life. Great reaction. Seriously.

A masterpiece of music and emotion. Maybe my favorite Nightwish song ever. Floor took it to another level. They only performed it with Floor 20 times. Likely never to be performed live ever again. Thankfully, we have this amazing video.

It is fair to say that I am a grown-ass man, was at that concert and have heard this song a thousand times. Rest assured I was sobbing too.

Hi Debbie, I also have been waiting for this. You are right #1 you need to be in the right mind set, #2 you need to know the background story of this incredible masterpiece to appreciate the true experience That is why you are a cut above many reactors, you get it, you research, you experience the raw emotion behind many artists and their performances. Love and Respect!!! And yes I still cry every time I watch this performance. Hits me hard.

Theeee most respectful way I've ever seen this song being approached. THANK YOU !! ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

Thanks for crying withing. Purifying cry that earns place in our hearts. This works every time and makes us better men n women. It´s very beautiful and teaching song.

also worth to say that Tuomas has said he is an empath so all of the emotions others may feel were felt as though they were his own Floor is a highly sensitive person and she was feeling everything and avoids eye contact with Tuomas A highly sensitive person (HSP) is someone who is thought to have an increased or deeper central nervous system sensitivity to physical, emotional, or social stimuli. i think she has also stated she is an empath as well makes this and every song that much more touching

This band always plays with my emotions I cry I smile I laugh it's real chilling did you notice how everyone went to check on Thomas it was sweet

Great video…great reaction. Marko will have my eternal respect for checking on Floor to make sure she was ok before going to show his support for Tuomas. It was just a glance but it spoke volumes of his character. His presence will be deeply missed.

NightWish Army Wisconsin Chapter here. Only Toumas’s pain can be turned into what I think is the Greatest, most emotional piece of music ever composed. The world loves Tuomas, we will always be there for him! ❤❤❤

This song is therapy, and about a new beginning. It starts with “the end” which is Tuomas leaving the dark unhappy place he was in behind. The song ends with “the beginning” of a new happy future in front of him! While this song is difficult to listen to, especially at first, it is a beautiful masterpiece that should be celebrated as Tuomas conquering his demons and coming out better for it! With Easter coming up in a few weeks, remember that it too has a similar emotionally difficult story with Jesus dying on the cross to conquer sin and to create a new beginning where we are saved! Don’t get me wrong I’m only saying that sometimes the most emotionally difficult stories (and songs) turn out to be what we cherish and respect the most. I feel this song is something that Nightwish fans truly respect and cherish which is why we continue to listen and cry to it every chance we get. It keeps us grounded and connects us. I hope someday you too will be willing to listen to it again!

Omgosh …it’s time…❤️

The benefit of an artist being able to channel and express their emotion through their art. It is challenging each listen and allows connection in ways you never thought existed. Bravo to you.

Thank you. remember now that you seen it for the 1st time Tuomas wants people to enjoy this masterpiece not be sad

A wise person once said, " In order to live a full life, you must think, laugh & cry every day. " Music can be the catalysts for all those things. ❤️🎙🎸🎹🥁😎🤘 Peace !

This is the most intense and emotional lead up and reaction to the song I have witnessed. Debbie it seemed to me throughout this song you just wanted to run up to Tuomas and give him a big hug. You get it. Whatever you call this community around Nightwish - an army, family or whatever, you are forever a part of it and it a part of you. ❤️

In my nearly 70 years on this planet and more than 50 years of playing music myself, I have never heard or seen another band that can touch my heart the way Nightwish does. They are simply the perfect combination of music and soul. And Floor - she is a Goddess in human form. Thank you Tuomas for baring your soul for all to experience and thank you Debbie for allowing us to see your heartfelt reactions.

To truly understand this song. You have to have been in that same dark place. That's why I envy the ones that don't understand this song. To be hurt so badly. It's feels like your core is being chopped up. Is something I wouldn't wish on anyone or anything.

This song always emotionally affected Tuomas, which is why they never play this anymore. He wanted Floor to perform this, but after they did it a few times he pulled it from the setlist. He is the happiest I have ever seen him, even back in the early Tarja days. He smiles lots now, and his smile makes me almost as happy as Floor's. He considered it therapeutic getting his emotions out. Floor breathed new happy life back into Nightwish, and they did the same for her after her year and a half burnout.

Thank you. I thought it would be hard for an empath like you to make this reaction video. Musically and emotionally powerful.

I've watched this 100 times, and still tear up!

I’ve listened to this song a thousand times, and I still cry every time ❤

I have listened this song so many times (hundreds of times) and still weeping, every time. I will listen it hundreds of times again, and most likely weeping through those times too. It is how it is.

I view his expressing his remorse and depressive feelings through song as incredibly healthy. This song literally goes through the stages of loss, grief, sadness, anger, helplessness, and finally, hope. For at least 6 months, he did not know if there would still be a Nightwish after the backlash. Thank goodness he got it out - 18 more years of excellent gifts for us to hear that would have never been written & composed. Hugs from 🇨🇦

Debbie this is a very intense emotional song! Your reaction is completely understandable and beautiful in it's own right! Much love.

Hello from the Netherlands. thanks for for the video Debbie . Sincerely Hollandduck

I watch dozens of music reactors for years, many many Nightwish reactions. I watched every Nightwish reaction video of you since you started. This one was the best I ever saw OF ALL REACTORS! You`re totally into it. I love that you`re so empathic - you`re part of the Nightwish army now!!!

No song describes in its composition so good how depression works like this one .

An incredible emotionally poetic song..... 🙇🏼‍♀️ *The poet and the pendulum* What a song, what a content, what an emotion, goosebumps... You know the backstory of Tuomas Debbie... you just can't help but cry 🥹 Floor's voice can really touch people so well because she also puts emotion in her voice! By the way, all band members have made a fantastic contribution! This makes you silent.... The images are also impressive. The Pacific 🌊 The pale moon 🌕 The end***The beginning "The Poet And The Pendulum" What a passion! Tuomas is a great composer unbelievable ✨ Thanks 🫶 Sweetie

I look at this song more as a window into those emotions that so many are not willing to talk about. I also went down that dark rabbit hole at one point. But in the end we all have to find purpose and a reason to keep moving forward. Search for beauty, find your shore. You have such beauty within. A moment for self reflection and hope for the future.

Bless You, Good Night.

I can honestly say that...your reaction had alot of us reliving our 1st experience. What always breaks me is when Emppu and Marko (who went thru it with him) gather around him at the end, for supporting their friend; making sure he was OK. I love to sing this song...bc it's a great vocal clinic, and you can really add emotion to the words. However, I can't sing it while seeing the video, or if I allow myself to think of the meaning...or I just begin sobbing.

Tuomas said in 2007 about this song: "It’s a very personal song, about the uppermost self hate and self disgust you can feel. The feeling that you’ll never stop doing wrong things in your life."

I think that one of the most important lines in this song is "1000 pages of erased text". IMO this refers to all his songs he had written for Tarja that he felt he had lost, after all, who could sing them like Tarja. Then along came Floor, I don't think it is a coincidence that they had the Decades tour bringing back some of the old songs from the Tarja era. I think that Floor made Thuomas believe he had his songs back. This is all my conjecture of course but I don't think I am far off.

Ah, Debbie. Know that we love you as we love Nightwish and all of our fans. NIghtwish is something beyond special. They are beyond beautiful, beyond ethereal. They are Nightwish... with our Valkyrie goddess, Floor. Thank you so much for this wonderful reaction that brings us all to tears. I hope that you, too, feel our love.

I think if you look at this song from the perspective of how it ends...with the beginning...you see that it isn't a tragedy, at all, it's a song of redemption. Those words in the final section "Mother and Father" are pretty much a direct quote from his mom. The final section is SO important because, with the final section, you see it's not a song about Tuomos killing himself at all, It's a song about facing the darkness, and going home to find people who really love you there, people who will reach out a hand and help you through whatever you're going through. The idea that there are people who love you enough to pull you through. To help you to a new beginning. "The beginning." The song in its entirety is Tuomas ripping his ribcage open and letting you examine all the hidden bits on the inside, in all it's horror (Sections 2 and 4) ...and all it's beauty (Sections 2 and 5) It's important to note that it ends (or, as the song says, begins) with beauty.

I'm so glad you did get to experience The Poet. It really is an incredibly heartfelt song that is so well written and performed that it beautifully conveys emotions that are far from beautiful. But in that way he provides a catharsis and emotional cleansing for both himself and those lucky enough to hear it. I think Floor's magical abilities with her voice make her the only singer who could possibly convey the depth of emotion that this song calls for, and I like to believe that it was this that gave Tuomas the courage to see it performed as it is. I can so well understand why you would need some time to yourself after the video, and to yet again extend a huge hug from all of us in the Nightwish Army (of which you have become a vital part, BTW). A whole heap of Nightwish love to you!

I think watching it again will be worth it. It still hits hard but the emotional roller coaster of the song and the genius of his ability to share his emotions through brilliant music can only be appreciated after a few listens. A job well done, Debbie!

This is beyond master piece from Tuomas ❤ Every time this song moves and hits me so. There is no better song writing and composing than this. What a beautiful reaction from you and you did so great job getting the background of this song and Tuomas. Honestly I waited this song reacted by you. Your Nightwish reactions are so lovely. I am so lycky to have all Nightwish studio albums since 1996 and also that Wacken 2013 2 DVD set including the documentary 'Please learn the setlist in 48 hours'. There are many other documentaries also about Nightwish.

❤🤗

Hi Debbie, I really hope you will soon be well again and I am really grateful that you decided to share this video with us. For what it's worth, I cried with you. You said at the end: "it's amazing what hate can do". But I believe it is far more amazing what love can do. And the last part (Mother and Father) is just about that. Love can rescue you from the darkest places. So I think after some time has passed, you will be able to listen to this song again. This song, this masterpiece is simply too good to not be listened to. Love from Germany, Wolfgang

Hey, you made it thru... I had to pause it 2 or 2 times when I first heard this... I couldn't believe how the music spoke to those forgotten and unhealed parts of my youth. It's a tough one... And congrats; you made it all the way to 9:11 before crushing that tissue.

I am almost 70 years old and a Nightwish fan since 1999. I first heard this song live in Amsterdam in 2015 and I cried. I have heard other performances that I enjoyed almost to the point of tears. But your reaction to this song made me cry again which is a first time for me. You said you would not listen to it again. I understand! But there is a Mexico City version that is even better because it has a very moving triple fistbump between Tuomas, Marko and Emppu at the end.

For Nightwish fans , this song is the most meaningful...And a big part of Nightwish History . And yet, Floor took this song to a new astral level (originally sung by Anette). Also I recommend to read "The Pit and The Pendulum" by Edgar Allan Poe for extra flavor. This song has the most emotional impact for me,... I was that that "Bastard" who abandoned Nightwish after Tarja left...Never Again !!!! Although I love this song (Especially this version), it is the only song, I can't put to my playlist... because, I break down to tears every single time (Current reaction included...). This masterpiece will remain a reminder to me for my narrow mindlessness. NWSU/FloorFan 🤘😔🤘.

Thank you lovely Debbie! I cried with you! Your reaction is the most heartfelt of all❤❤

Thank you for sharing this with us!

Have been waiting for this 👌🏻👌🏻

Floor brings so much emotion to this song than Tuomas could have ever wanted, Marko believe it or not originally sang this song in full in a DEMO version with slightly different lyrics which they also released.

One of the master pieces. No 1. Greatest show on earth.

Debbie; you are a gift for me. You are emotional and genuine person; that song is a rollercoster of feelings, and your reaction of that master-piece of all times was mezmerising, too. Greetings fron Argentina

I think this song takes you through the five stages of grief; SARAH... Shock, Anger, Resentment, Acceptance and, Happiness. The danger of doing too much research before hearing this song is that you get stuck on the first three. When you have a moment, watch it again and you will, I hope, get the feeling of redemption that I do at the end. Thanks for sharing Debbi.

An absolute rollercoaster of emotions!! I ve seen this video hundreds if time and it still gives me chills!! I cried like a baby with your reaction, Debbie… Greetings from Spain!!

In the end, Floor sitting between her brothers ... - 73 years old hippie from The Netherlands (Floor country) checking out ... Shine on Debbie, we luv yah 🤘👍

Probably the best HONEST and emotional reaction I've seen BAR NONE. Debbie you DID GIVE IT THE RESPECT IT DESERVES & THEN SOME. THANK YOU

Beautiful !!! Beautiful song, Beautiful bandmembers, Beautiful lyrics, Beautiful backdrop, Beautiful performance, Beautiful show . Just Beautiful !!!

I think you reaction says volumes. Thank you for getting through it and doing all the research. You did the song justice. Mother and Father gets me every time. Every...time.

Your reaction is "...the respect it deserves". I first heard this song when I was 60 years old. It...confused...me. So I did the "required" research and listened again. My reaction was the same as yours. Today I (as a man, married with two kids over 35)...at 67 years old still tear up when I hear this song and I expect to tear up many more times until "...I'm tucked in...beneath the blue...beneath the pain...with one last goodnight kiss for a child of time".

It gets me every time...even though I know what to expect. Man, Floor's vocals bring so much emotion to the fore that it gets right to your soul. I am also glad that Tuomas found a way out of that dark place. To bring himself to put that emotion into his art took a lot of courage. It doesn't surprise me that they don't perform this song anymore...it must be heart-wrenching for him to live through that every time. Thank you for the reaction...now onto a more uplifting one next, okay? Cheers!

So proud of you Deb ...great reaction 💜 I tear up every time I watch it...a stunning opus

For me, Floor is special, not only because of her amazing singing, but also because she has a powerful and emotional presence. When she sings this song, there is a mirror effect because she is mirroring our feelings and our life stories. When I was watching her sing, I was remembering my life as if this song was about me as well.

You showed the utmost respect for this song - sometimes less is more, your thoughts were made plainly clear to us and is completely understandable. You went above and beyond with your "homework" on this song, and it shows. I didn't know the backstory behind the song until I had listened many times, and the first time after I had been "educated', it really hit me with a ton of bricks. It's a tough song, and I cry in a part or two each and every time I listen to it, and tonight cried right along with you. Give "Whoever Brings The Night", an Annette song a try. Much love to you, see you on the other side of the Nightwish spectrum soon!♥

still the greatest song nightwish ever recoded and this is still their best recorded performance.

This was a great reaction, because your face, your eyes say it all. And your compassion, and your very soul shined bright ♥ As someone who has suffered depression and continues to suffer from social anxiety disorder, this song is actually one of light for me; as he doesn't feel that way anymore - it gives me hope. I'm actually going to get "lead me astray to dreamers hideaway" tattooed on my arm at some point, because it is beautiful ♥ Thank you for uploading this video. I hope you are OK ♥

Thank you, you beautiful person. I had a good cry, too the first time I watched this, and many more after that. I didn't even had the background on first listen, and still cried. That's what music is for me, it's all about emotion. If I can't feel it, I don't care. Listening to this hooked me to Nightwish, as I have never experienced before. I'm glad I did. Wish you all the best, dear Debbie. Cheers!

Part 5 "Mother and Father" gets me every time.

You understand, Debbie. And we here in the international Nightwish Army understand you. Those of us who do never fail to be moved by this towering masterpiece. This is truly a sledgehammer to heart and soul. Nothing else compares to it. I've seen others react to this heart-rending masterpiece with stupid, grins and uncomprehending looks on their faces - they hear neither the music nor the story nor the emotional weight of what this is. For a genius like Tuomas, sorrow and heartbreak is often the crucible in which great art is forged. Remember the line from Dead Boys Poem: "Every thought, the music I write..." We mere mortals can scarcely comprehend an existence like that. You get it, Deb and bless you for it. You are loved by many.

My favorite amongst all the amazing Nightwish songs.

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

It get's me every time after all those years. I just love when Marko and Empuu get up to Tuomas at the end to make sure he is OK. Don't be afraid of listening to it more, as this is a masterpiece of music and the fact that Tuomas now is feeling so much better. I listen to it at least once a month or more. Be safe!

Great and honest reaction. Tears happen and it sometimes requires more than a moment to digest this one. When you feel depth the way you do, no amount of preparation can truly prepare for this performance. Your initiation into the army is complete.

It's very emotional song isn't it, you can see why it's better to get to know the band before you do the reaction. Lovely emotional reaction Debbie, you did give it respect.

Please listen again and again. I was like you the first time. Still brings tears to my eyes but not only of sadness but of hope and the beauty of music and expression❤

The one word that hits me like a 10 ton truck to describe this is genuine. Thank you for your honesty. Thank you for your vulnerability. The single tear at 6:40 says all you need to know about how real you are. Thank you for sharing.

The way Marko and Emppu went to stand beside him at the end, spoke volumes x

That was really a true honest emotional reaction💓 Everytime i watch this video i get emotional too, also why Floor sings it with so much emotion and passion, she feels the song really. Kind regards from the Netherlands ❤

Oh, God. Freakin' wrecks me every damn time. My favorite bit is the end (Mother and Father). Floor's plaintive, weeping vocal. When Tuomas mouths the words. "Try to save them all. Bleed no more." Oh, man. You know, it's the Jesus thing. Once all souls are saved, Jesus won't have to bleed any more. As the poet bleeds for his art. Powerful stuff. Great react, Debbie. ✌&❤ 🎩🎹🎹🎹🎹🎹 🤘😎

For me it's the most beautiful song of Nightwish !!! 🥲

Sometimes everything comes together in an utterly perfect way that transcends just a performance of a piece of music. This reaches into you and rips your emotions out. The words, the music, the lighting, the voices, the changes in mood, the totality of human frailty on display.

After having watched about 200 reactions to the poet I finally had the greatest honour to find yours. From the first moment I got the feeling, that you are able to do it in the right way. And I didn't fail. You adorable woman, you are able to share such deep emotions to an audiance you don't even know. I can see it in your eyes, that you also had hard times in life but I hope and believe you are running in the right direction and strong enough to get over all as you did with your touching reaction. If you ever need a helping friend to talk to - I am here.

Watching you watching this song makes it even more emotional and made me cry again!!!😐

Now you need to watch I Want My Tears Back from Buenos Aires for some happy Nightwish!

Dear Queen... when you said you needed the right mood to listen to this master piece, you were right. I am passing trough my roughest time in life, all my so called friends left me, my mother died, went bankrupt, my family is giving me the cold shoulder, i´m also on the verge to become homeless, have no food on the fridge... Anyway, let´s go straight to my commentary: i left my computer on, with my reactions of the day on, and it went straight to your reaction and started on his own...your voice tone caught me LITERALLY with a rope on my neck, and, i dont know why....you gave me a little hope. If, by somw chance one day you think on giving up anything, just remember....i´m still alive because of you. Hope you keep up your great work....and from the deepest and sweetest part of my heart... thank you.

Thank you Debbie. A beautiful, heart-felt and honest reaction. I think we all feel the emotion of this song, possibly above all other Nightwish compositions. This (and Dead Boys Poem) never fails to move me deeply. Watching you mirror my own experience is truly moving, and I hope that in time you, like Toumas, arrive at a time where you can listen to this and appreciate it without the accompanying hurt. You are a beautiful soul. Take care. ❤

Debbie. . . . . . . . Your commentators have said it all. I concur. A truly excellent and exemplary effort.