Pretty Things

Big Thief's 'Pretty Things' is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of vulnerability, intimacy, and the complexities of human relationships. The song opens with a tender plea to Matthew, urging him not to regret their shared moments of intimacy. The imagery of 'silk in my hand' and 'heart in my sweat' evokes a sense of closeness and raw emotion, while the act of lighting a cigarette signifies a moment of reflection and connection. The narrator promises warmth and care, highlighting the nurturing aspect of their relationship.

As the song progresses, it delves deeper into the themes of loneliness and the desire to fulfill each other's wishes. The line 'These things that lonely ones do' suggests a mutual understanding of each other's needs and a willingness to provide comfort. However, the narrator also asserts their own strength and complexity, warning against being taken for a fool. The acknowledgment of a 'woman inside of me' and 'inside of you, too' speaks to the duality of human nature and the presence of both vulnerability and strength within each person.

The song's most striking imagery comes in the lines 'There is a meeting in my thighs / Where in thunder and lightning / Men are baptized in their anger and fighting.' This powerful metaphor captures the intense and often tumultuous nature of intimate relationships, where emotions can clash and intertwine. The repeated phrase 'lips like sugar' juxtaposes sweetness with the underlying tension, creating a sense of bittersweet longing. Ultimately, the song concludes with the recognition that the 'woman inside' does not always do 'pretty things,' embracing the imperfections and complexities that make us human.