Saraband

Corpus Delicti's 'Saraband' is a haunting and melancholic exploration of sorrow, betrayal, and the depths of human emotion. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman who is deeply tormented by her feelings, finding solace and despair in the river's bed. The imagery of water, often associated with emotions and the subconscious, serves as a powerful metaphor for her internal struggle. The river becomes a place where she confronts her deepest fears and sorrows, ultimately leading to her demise.

The recurring theme of unspoken words and broken trust adds a layer of tragedy to the narrative. The lines 'The words you meant to tell will never be' and 'I take back my trust in you' suggest a relationship marred by secrets and betrayal. The woman's journey through the river, from caressing the water to being drowned by it, symbolizes her emotional descent and the overwhelming nature of her grief. The moon, a symbol of change and reflection, fades as she succumbs to her sorrow, highlighting the transient and fragile nature of life and emotions.

The song also contrasts the woman's silent suffering with the chaotic and passionate actions of others. The lines 'They're jumping and dancing and loving and kissing on and on' juxtapose the vibrancy of life with the darkness of her experience. This contrast emphasizes the isolation and loneliness she feels, as well as the stark difference between her internal world and the external reality. The final image of her body being carried away by the waves, with her soul following, is a poignant conclusion to her tragic story, leaving the listener with a sense of lingering sadness and reflection on the complexities of human emotions.