Isobel

The song "Isobel" by Björk tells the story of a character who is deeply intertwined with nature and her own sense of self. The lyrics paint a picture of a woman named Isobel who is 'married to herself,' suggesting a strong sense of independence and self-sufficiency. The song opens with a metaphor of a spark in a pitch-dark forest, which bursts into flame, symbolizing Isobel's own awakening or realization of her identity and power.

The recurring theme of nature in the song, with references to a forest, a creature called Lust, and a tower of steel, indicates a connection between Isobel's personal growth and the natural world. The 'creature called Lust' living in a 'heart full of dust' could represent the primal instincts and desires that reside within everyone, which can be both surprising and frightening. Isobel's relationship with these aspects of herself seems to be one of acknowledgment and acceptance, as she lives 'by herself,' not in loneliness, but in a state of self-reliance.

The moth delivering an 'unexplained message' on the collar and 'crawling in silence' could be a metaphor for the subtle and often unnoticed ways in which one's inner thoughts and feelings can influence their actions and the world around them. The simplicity of the 'excuse' might suggest that Isobel's actions are instinctual and not in need of justification. Overall, the song encapsulates the journey of self-discovery, the embrace of one's inner nature, and the strength found in solitude.