For Whom The Bell Tolls

About this song

The song is Metallica's take on Hemingway's novel of the same name. It is part of a string of literary adaptations that runs from the Bible through Dalton Trumbo.

What it's about

The song deals with the reproach of modern warfare and the combatants' impending demise during the Spanish Civil War.

Fun facts

• Sampled in 7 other songs, like “1984 by The Hood Internet”.
• Covered 22 times, including “For Whom The Bell Tolls by Spacecorpse”.
• Written by James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich and Cliff Burton.
• Produced by Metallica.
• Recorded at Sweet Silence Studios.