Black Hair
Alex G
The Enigmatic Allure of 'Black Hair' by Alex G
Alex G's song 'Black Hair' is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of obsession, love, and the cyclical nature of emotions. The recurring imagery of 'black hair' serves as a powerful metaphor, representing a person or an idea that has a profound and almost overwhelming impact on the narrator. The phrase 'swimming in my head' suggests that this presence is inescapable, constantly occupying the narrator's thoughts. The comparison of 'black hair' to something 'bigger than death' elevates its significance, implying that it holds a power that transcends even the finality of life.
The lyrics also delve into themes of worth and validation. The line 'I'll show you what I'm worth' indicates a desire to prove oneself, possibly to the person symbolized by the 'black hair.' This need for validation is further complicated by the acknowledgment that 'it's not what you are, it's just what you did,' suggesting that actions, rather than inherent qualities, define the relationship. The plea 'don't hang up the phone, I love you to death' adds a layer of desperation, highlighting the narrator's fear of abandonment and their intense emotional dependence.
The concept of 'eternal return' is repeated multiple times, hinting at the cyclical nature of the narrator's feelings. This idea, rooted in philosophical thought, suggests that events and emotions are destined to recur indefinitely. The final lines, 'Black hair is melting in the Sun, Black hair just look at what you've done,' evoke a sense of decay and transformation, as if the once-powerful presence is now fading away, leaving behind a trail of consequences. Through its evocative lyrics and rich metaphors, 'Black Hair' captures the complexities of love, obsession, and the relentless passage of time.