Siren

Joan Shelley's 'Siren' is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of longing, isolation, and the complexities of human connection. The song opens with the imagery of being lost at sea, a metaphor for the emotional turbulence and uncertainty that the protagonist faces. The sea, cold and rough, represents the harsh realities of life and the internal struggles that one must navigate. The protagonist, who has been alone on this metaphorical sea for a long time, yearns for love and connection, even as the waves threaten to pull her under.

The siren, a mythical creature known for luring sailors to their doom with enchanting music, serves as a powerful symbol in the song. Shelley subverts this traditional image by portraying the siren as a figure of both allure and vulnerability. The siren's desire to touch and feel love is palpable, yet she acknowledges her own flaws and the darkness that accompanies her. The line 'I’ve been mistaken for something I’m not, for something I wished I could be' reveals a deep sense of self-awareness and the pain of not living up to an idealized version of oneself.

The song also delves into themes of existential dread and the search for solace. The 'darkest horse' chasing the protagonist and the indifferent gods highlight the sense of inevitability and the lack of control over one's fate. Despite the bleakness, there is a yearning for redemption and peace, as seen in the wish for the 'pink light of morning' to wash away the demons. The recurring nautical imagery, including references to the Venture and the Morning Star, adds to the song's melancholic and introspective tone, making 'Siren' a poignant reflection on the human condition.