Animals

Big Thief's song 'Animals' delves into themes of freedom, nature, and the complexities of human relationships. The opening lines, 'The animals are wonderful / Such a vision in the sun, how they lay low,' paint a serene picture of animals basking in the sun, symbolizing a state of natural freedom and peace. This imagery sets the tone for the song, suggesting a longing for a simpler, more instinctual way of living.

The lyrics 'I catch my breath and count my dough / And I only live to run and I need to go' reflect a sense of restlessness and the desire to escape the constraints of modern life. The act of counting money juxtaposed with the need to run highlights the tension between material concerns and the yearning for freedom. This duality is a recurring theme in Big Thief's music, often exploring the conflict between societal expectations and personal desires.

The lines 'You and I were born with the same design / Nothing in the world will make you make your mind up oh me' suggest a deep connection between the narrator and another person, possibly a romantic partner. Despite this connection, there is an acknowledgment that nothing can force someone to make a decision about their feelings. The final verse, 'She always knew, she'll always know / That I loved her oh so well, but I need to go,' encapsulates the bittersweet nature of love and the inevitability of parting ways. The narrator's love is genuine, but the need for freedom and self-discovery ultimately takes precedence.

Big Thief's 'Animals' is a poignant exploration of the tension between love and freedom, set against the backdrop of nature's simplicity. The song invites listeners to reflect on their own desires for connection and independence, and the delicate balance between the two.