When I Grow Up

Fever Ray's 'When I Grow Up' is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of dreams, identity, and the passage of time. The song opens with the protagonist expressing a desire to become a forester, a role that symbolizes a deep connection with nature. The imagery of running through moss on high heels juxtaposes the natural world with elements of human artifice, suggesting a complex relationship between the self and the environment. The act of throwing a boomerang and waiting for it to return can be seen as a metaphor for life's cyclical nature and the hope that our actions will eventually come back to us in meaningful ways.

The second verse shifts to a longing for a life by the sea, filled with simple pleasures like crab claws and bottles of rum. This idyllic vision is tinged with a sense of waiting and anticipation, as the protagonist stares at a seashell, hoping for an embrace from the sea. This could symbolize a yearning for connection and a sense of belonging, themes that are further explored in the lines about putting one's soul into their actions and the creation of a 'funny man' with dark eyes and a hanging tongue. This figure represents the darker, more melancholic aspects of the human experience, highlighting the tension between our desires and the often harsh realities of life.

The song also delves into themes of care and responsibility, as the protagonist mentions being good with plants and keeping the soil moist for friends. This nurturing aspect contrasts with moments of rest and vulnerability, such as crying and waiting for someone to catch them. The imagery of cucumbers on the eyes and a face in the ceiling suggests a sense of stagnation and the passage of time spent waiting for something significant to happen. Overall, 'When I Grow Up' is a rich tapestry of dreams, reflections, and the intricate dance between hope and reality.