Flume

Bon Iver's 'Flume' is a song that weaves a delicate tapestry of personal identity and the profound bonds of love. The opening lines, 'I am my mother's only one / It's enough,' set a tone of intimacy and a deep connection to family. The simplicity of the statement underscores a sense of contentment and sufficiency in this bond. The mention of wearing a garment 'so it shows' suggests a pride in one's origins and an openness to letting personal history be visible to others.

The recurring phrase 'Only love is all maroon' introduces a rich, deep color to symbolize love's depth and complexity. The imagery of 'gluey feathers on a flume' and the 'sky is womb and she's the Moon' evokes a sense of natural flow and the cyclical nature of life, with the moon often representing femininity and motherhood. These metaphors may suggest the nurturing aspects of love and the way it can carry us through life's currents.

The song's structure is minimalistic, reflecting Bon Iver's indie-folk style, which often focuses on raw emotion and simplicity. The repetition of key phrases like 'Only love is all maroon' and the vivid imagery of nature serve to reinforce the central themes of love and maternal connection. The song's gentle melody and introspective lyrics invite listeners to reflect on their own relationships and the fundamental role that love plays in shaping our identities and experiences.