Rough Song

Beach House's 'Rough Song' is a haunting exploration of emotional turmoil and the desire to escape painful memories. The song opens with the imagery of a party, where the protagonist finds a 'hole to be sorry,' suggesting a moment of introspection amidst the chaos. The act of drinking to remember someone's face indicates a longing for the past, yet it is tinged with sorrow and regret. This sets the tone for a narrative that delves into themes of loss, memory, and the struggle to move on.

The lyrics 'All the charm in the evening, Peridot television, Loveless another, Daughter and mother' paint a picture of fleeting beauty and fractured relationships. The mention of 'Peridot television' could symbolize a distorted or idealized view of reality, while 'Loveless another' hints at a cycle of unfulfilled connections. The reference to 'Daughter and mother' adds a layer of familial tension, suggesting that these emotional wounds may be deeply rooted in personal history.

As the song progresses, the imagery becomes more vivid and intense. The line 'Her story unravels like a ribbon in the windy distance' evokes a sense of a life coming apart, piece by piece. The repeated mention of 'vodka cocktail party' underscores a pattern of self-destructive behavior, perhaps as a coping mechanism. The chorus, with its plea to forget 'all that wasn't right,' encapsulates the central theme of the song: the desperate need to leave behind the pain and find a way to heal. The 'totems in the night' symbolize the lingering memories and emotions that haunt the protagonist, making the journey to forget and move on a challenging one.

Beach House's dreamy, ethereal soundscape complements the lyrical content, creating an immersive experience that captures the listener's emotions. The song's melancholic tone and introspective lyrics invite listeners to reflect on their own experiences with loss and the quest for closure.