Damage Gets Done (feat. Hozier)

Brandi Carlile's song 'Damage Gets Done,' featuring Hozier, is a poignant reflection on the carefree and reckless days of youth. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a time when material possessions were minimal, but the sense of freedom and adventure was boundless. The opening lines, 'Without shame, two outfits then to my name / You'd end up in one when you'd stay,' set the stage for a narrative of simplicity and shared experiences. The song reminisces about a period when the comforts of life were few, but the desire to explore and live fully was immense. This juxtaposition highlights the idea that true richness comes from experiences and connections rather than material wealth.

The chorus, 'And darlin', I haven't felt it since then / I don't know how the feelin' ended / But I know being reckless and young / Is not how the damage gets done,' delves into the bittersweet realization that the innocence and recklessness of youth are fleeting. The song suggests that the real damage in life doesn't come from youthful indiscretions but from the loss of that youthful spirit and the pressures of adult responsibilities. This theme is further emphasized in lines like 'One time we would want for nothin' / We knew what our love was worth / Now we're always missing something,' which reflect a longing for the simplicity and contentment of the past.

The collaboration with Hozier adds a rich, soulful layer to the song, enhancing its emotional depth. Both artists are known for their powerful, evocative voices and ability to convey deep emotion through their music. 'Damage Gets Done' is a testament to the enduring impact of youthful experiences and the inevitable changes that come with growing older. It captures the essence of nostalgia, the longing for a simpler time, and the realization that the true damage in life comes from losing touch with that sense of freedom and adventure.