Equus

Blonde Redhead's song 'Equus' is a poetic exploration of love, devotion, and the inherent fear of losing someone dear. The repeated plea, 'Allow me to show you the way which I adore you,' underscores a deep yearning to express affection and admiration. This repetition not only emphasizes the intensity of the speaker's feelings but also suggests a sense of urgency and desperation to communicate their love fully.

The metaphor of the horse, or 'Equus,' serves as a central symbol in the song. Horses are often seen as majestic yet timid creatures, embodying both strength and vulnerability. The lyrics, 'Sometimes I think I must just let you be, let you be a horse,' reflect a recognition of the loved one's need for freedom and autonomy. The speaker's desire to be a 'rider' signifies a wish to be close and connected, yet there is an underlying fear of losing this bond, as indicated by the lines, 'Afraid, so afraid to lose you.' This duality captures the tension between love and the fear of loss.

The song also touches on themes of protection and possessiveness. The lines, 'I will hide you, I will protect you, won't let anyone take you away,' reveal a protective instinct, driven by the fear of external threats. However, this protective nature can also be seen as possessive, as the speaker wishes to keep the loved one safe from others' gaze. The transformation into a 'donkey' and pretending to be 'lame' when someone looks at the horse further illustrates this possessiveness and the lengths to which the speaker would go to shield their beloved.

'Equus' by Blonde Redhead is a rich tapestry of emotions, blending love, fear, and protection into a hauntingly beautiful narrative. The song's lyrical depth and evocative metaphors invite listeners to reflect on their own experiences of love and the complexities that come with it.