Wriggle

Cosmo Sheldrake's song 'Wriggle' is a playful and whimsical exploration of life's choices and the paths we take. The lyrics are filled with a sense of curiosity and wonder, asking questions about how we navigate through life. The repeated inquiries like 'Did you wriggle or roll? Did you giggle or grumble through?' suggest a fascination with the different ways people experience their journeys. This playful tone is further emphasized by the use of nursery rhyme-like language and imagery, such as 'Tom thumb' and 'big brown cow,' which evoke a childlike sense of exploration and discovery.

The chorus, with its invitation to 'go down' and 'wriggle on,' encourages listeners to embrace life's adventures and uncertainties. The mention of activities like 'put some pickles on, and play the mellotron' adds a layer of absurdity and fun, suggesting that life should be enjoyed with a sense of humor and creativity. The idea of 'count to twenty-one' and 'feed the pelicans' further reinforces the theme of taking pleasure in the simple, sometimes nonsensical, aspects of life.

However, the song also touches on deeper themes, such as the inevitability of mortality. The lines 'But where will we go when the bell, it tolls for me? Both you and I know when it tolls, well, it tolls for thee' introduce a somber note, reminding us that life is finite. This juxtaposition of lightheartedness and existential reflection creates a rich tapestry of emotions, encouraging listeners to ponder the balance between enjoying the present and acknowledging the future. Cosmo Sheldrake's unique blend of whimsical lyrics and thought-provoking themes makes 'Wriggle' a captivating and multifaceted piece of music.