Visur vatnsenda-rosu

Björk's song 'Visur vatnsenda-rosu' is a poignant exploration of love and loss, steeped in the rich tradition of Icelandic folk music. The lyrics, sung in Icelandic, convey a deep sense of longing and sorrow, reflecting on a past relationship that was once cherished but is now a source of pain. The song's title translates to 'The Song of the Water's End Rose,' which itself evokes a sense of something beautiful yet ephemeral, much like the fleeting nature of love.

The opening lines, 'Augun mín og Augun þín / Ó þá fögru steina,' translate to 'My eyes and your eyes / Oh, those beautiful stones.' This metaphor of eyes as precious stones suggests a deep connection and admiration between the lovers. The following lines, 'Mitt var þitt og þitt var mitt / þú veist hvað ég meina,' meaning 'Mine was yours and yours was mine / you know what I mean,' emphasize the mutual bond and shared experiences that defined their relationship.

As the song progresses, the lyrics reveal a sense of nostalgia and regret. 'Langt er síðan sá ég hann / Sannlega fríður var hann,' which means 'It has been a long time since I saw him / Truly, he was handsome,' reflects on the physical and emotional distance that has grown over time. The final lines, 'Ó að við hefðum aldrei sést / elsku vinurinn góði,' translating to 'Oh, that we had never met / dear good friend,' encapsulate the heartache of wishing to undo the past to avoid the present pain. Björk's haunting vocals and the minimalist arrangement further amplify the emotional weight of the lyrics, making 'Visur vatnsenda-rosu' a deeply moving piece about the enduring impact of lost love.