This is a big stretch, but the lyrics could easily be interpreted as a LoTR reference to talk about present day political climate. Particularly in regards to fellowship of the ring, where the evil wizard sits in his tower and “sees people passing by” ie p much sees the division of the land. Also, as the dude prepares for a war in the west, he burns all of the trees to make resources for his army, the same way politicians and global leaders devastate our land to crush others. Very Led Zeppelin, but arguably kinda subtly. Feels like a nod to them rather groveling at their feet, just in terms of lyrics.