Clara Bow

Kristin Hersh's song 'Clara Bow' delves into a complex emotional landscape, marked by a blend of regret, resentment, and a grudging respect. The lyrics open with a confession of not using someone, yet wishing the opposite were true, setting a tone of conflicted feelings. This juxtaposition suggests a relationship where the speaker feels both detachment and a missed opportunity for deeper engagement.

The references to 'soaking in your poppy tea' and 'southern hospitality' evoke a sense of place and mood, hinting at experiences that are intoxicating and warmly inviting, yet perhaps overwhelming. The mention of a voice with a 'singsong quality' and the notion that 'bones were made to be broken' further this theme of beauty intertwined with pain, suggesting a delicate balance between vulnerability and strength in personal interactions.

The latter part of the song shifts to a broader reflection on dissatisfaction and resilience. The 'sunburned lips' and complaints about 'another stupid summer' symbolize a weariness with repetitive, draining cycles, whether they be seasonal or emotional. The final lines about 'paste eaters' and 'strong women' who 'gripe and bite your heavy tongues' portray a struggle against stifling conditions, advocating for a fierce, unapologetic survival strategy amidst challenging circumstances.