This Beard Is For Siobhan

Devendra Banhart's song "This Beard Is For Siobhan" is a whimsical and surreal exploration of identity, physicality, and the passage of time. The lyrics are filled with playful and absurd imagery, which is characteristic of Banhart's unique style. The song opens with a reference to a woman, described as the daughter of a man and a mammal, who bears the mark of fire and flame. This could symbolize a person marked by passion or intensity, suggesting a deeper, perhaps mythical, significance to her existence.

The song then shifts to a reflection on the 'golden age,' a time of both loss and gain. This duality hints at the complexities of life, where joy and sorrow often coexist. The repeated 'tra la la la' adds a childlike, carefree tone, contrasting with the deeper themes. Banhart's lyrics often juxtapose lightheartedness with profound ideas, creating a unique blend of the whimsical and the philosophical.

As the song progresses, Banhart uses physical sensations and body parts to convey a sense of presence and experience. The splitting lips, frozen nose, and non-biting teeth are all described in a way that turns potential discomfort into a source of amusement and wonder. This playful treatment of the body highlights a theme of embracing imperfections and finding joy in the mundane. The repeated refrain of having a 'real good time' reinforces the idea of finding happiness and contentment in the present moment, despite life's oddities and challenges.

Overall, "This Beard Is For Siobhan" is a celebration of life's quirks and the beauty of embracing one's unique identity. Banhart's use of surreal imagery and playful language invites listeners to find joy in the unexpected and to appreciate the simple pleasures of existence.