Harm Of Will

Björk's 'Harm Of Will' is a haunting exploration of power dynamics, submission, and identity. The song's lyrics are cryptic and poetic, weaving a narrative that is both intimate and universal. The repeated references to 'he' and 'she' suggest a relationship where one party holds significant control over the other. The troubadour, a historical figure known for romantic and often melancholic songs, symbolizes a man of influence and allure. This man is omnipresent, the one to be sought, the man about town, indicating his dominance and desirability.

The imagery of placing 'her' unclothed on top of the family tree is striking and loaded with meaning. It suggests vulnerability and exposure, as well as a kind of elevation or pedestalization. However, this elevation is not necessarily empowering; it is more about being put on display, stripped of agency. The family tree could symbolize lineage, heritage, or societal expectations, adding layers to the interpretation of this act. The woman's long legs might signify beauty and grace, but also a certain fragility in this context.

The song delves deeper into the complexities of this relationship with the lines about her being 'coily placed crouched sucking him.' This vivid and somewhat disturbing image speaks to a submissive position, both physically and emotionally. The narrator's perspective shifts, revealing a sense of detachment and resignation. 'I leave her without pith or feel' suggests a removal of essence or spirit, leaving her as a hollow figure. The control exerted by 'he' is absolute, and his anonymity ('he makes his face known to none') ensures that his power remains unchallenged. The final lines hint at a revelation that, if 'he' is seen, then all will know the narrator, suggesting a deep, perhaps hidden connection between the two.