Alabaster

Foals' song 'Alabaster' is a haunting and poetic exploration of love, loss, and transcendence. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman who seems almost otherworldly, described as being 'up in the sky' and 'up in the domes.' This imagery suggests a sense of elevation and separation from the mundane world, hinting at a spiritual or ethereal quality to her existence. The repeated references to the sky being on fire add a layer of urgency and intensity, as if her presence is both illuminating and consuming.

The song also delves into themes of regret and debt, both emotional and perhaps spiritual. The line 'Religious regret and infinite debt' suggests a burden carried by the woman, possibly hinting at a past filled with mistakes or unfulfilled promises. This is contrasted with the idea of her being a 'light in the dark,' indicating that despite her burdens, she remains a beacon of hope and inspiration. The term 'Alabaster lover' evokes an image of purity and fragility, yet the repeated assertion that 'you won't get more' implies a sense of limitation or finality in their relationship.

The chorus, with its repetitive and almost hypnotic quality, reinforces the idea of an unattainable or elusive love. The phrase 'We make each other' suggests a mutual creation or influence, yet it is immediately followed by 'you won't get more,' emphasizing the constraints and boundaries of their connection. The song's closing lines, 'We will feel nothing ever,' leave the listener with a sense of emptiness and unresolved tension, as if the love they share is both profound and ultimately unfulfilling. Through its rich imagery and emotional depth, 'Alabaster' captures the complexities of love that is both transcendent and constrained by its own nature.