Calgary

Bon Iver's 'Calgary' is a hauntingly beautiful song that delves into themes of longing, loss, and the ephemeral nature of relationships. The lyrics are rich with metaphors and imagery, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that invites listeners to explore the deeper emotional currents beneath the surface. The song's title, 'Calgary,' may evoke a sense of place, but the lyrics transcend any specific location, instead painting a picture of intimate moments and emotional landscapes.

The opening lines, 'Don't you cherish me to sleep / Never keep your eyelids clipped,' suggest a desire for genuine connection and presence, rather than superficial comfort. The mention of 'pops and clicks' and 'the father's crib' hints at the passage of time and the innocence of childhood, juxtaposed with the complexities of adult relationships. The imagery of hair cascading over shoulders and a message taped across the chest evokes a sense of physical and emotional intimacy, yet there's an underlying tension of impermanence.

As the song progresses, the lyrics explore the struggle to maintain communication and understanding within a relationship. Phrases like 'Teach our bodies: Haunt the cause' and 'I was only trying to spell a loss' reflect the difficulty of articulating and processing emotional pain. The recurring motif of being 'only for' someone or something underscores a sense of purpose tied to another person, yet also highlights the fragility of that connection. The final verses, with their vivid imagery of a storm on a lake and a fire going out, convey a sense of inevitable change and the fading of once-vibrant emotions. The closing lines, 'Oh the demons come, they can subside,' offer a glimmer of hope that, despite the turmoil, there is a possibility for peace and resolution.

'Calgary' is a poignant exploration of the delicate balance between love and loss, presence and absence, and the transient nature of human connections. Bon Iver's ethereal soundscape and evocative lyrics create a deeply moving experience that resonates with listeners on a profound emotional level.