Lay And Love
Bonnie Prince Billy
The Quiet Reverence of Love in 'Lay And Love'
Bonnie Prince Billy's song 'Lay And Love' is a tender ode to the complexities and beauty of love. The lyrics paint a picture of admiration and deep affection for a partner who is seen as magnificent, generous, and luminous. The narrator is in awe of their partner's ability to fight evil, bring sunshine, and make things luminous, which evokes a sense of reverence and quiet admiration. This admiration is so profound that it compels the narrator to simply lay and love their partner, basking in their presence and the light they bring into the world.
However, the song also delves into the more vulnerable aspects of the partner's character. Despite their outward magnificence and generosity, the partner is also depicted as terrified and mistrustful, with a smile that hides something hurtful. This duality adds depth to the song, highlighting that even those who seem strong and radiant have their own fears and insecurities. The narrator's love is not diminished by these flaws; instead, it is deepened, as they lay and love their partner even more for their humanity and vulnerability.
The song concludes with a hopeful note, as the narrator expresses a feeling that their partner might also lay and love them in return. This mutual love, filled with colors of violet, red, and blue, symbolizes a rich and multifaceted emotional connection. Bonnie Prince Billy's gentle and introspective musical style complements the lyrics, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere that invites listeners to reflect on the quiet, profound moments of love in their own lives.