Blood And Butter

Caroline Polachek's song 'Blood And Butter' is a poetic exploration of intimacy, transformation, and the deep connections that shape our identities. The lyrics are rich with vivid imagery and metaphors, creating a tapestry of emotions and experiences that resonate on a personal and universal level.

The song opens with a striking visual of someone in 'denim and bows,' setting a tone of casual yet deliberate style. The phrase 'the mode is lethal' suggests a powerful, almost dangerous allure. Polachek then delves into the idea of place and presence, stating 'the place is here, the here is inside you,' which can be interpreted as a metaphor for emotional and spiritual connection. This line emphasizes the internal world and the profound impact of personal relationships.

Throughout the song, Polachek uses contrasting elements like 'blood and butter' and 'holy water, fire in the sky' to illustrate the duality of human experience. Blood and butter symbolize the raw, visceral aspects of life alongside the nurturing, everyday comforts. Holy water and fire in the sky evoke a sense of the sacred and the sublime, suggesting that love and connection can be both grounding and transcendent. The recurring question 'Where did you come from, you?' reflects a sense of wonder and curiosity about the other person, highlighting the mystery and depth of human relationships.

The chorus expresses a desire for simplicity and presence, 'needing nothing but the Sun that's in our eyes,' which speaks to the purity of being fully present with someone. The imagery of 'diving through your face to the sweetest kind of pain' suggests a deep emotional dive, where vulnerability and intimacy bring both pleasure and pain. The song's closing lines, 'I get closer than your new tattoo,' reinforce the idea of an indelible connection, one that is more permanent and intimate than any physical mark.