Esame

Joanna Newsom's 'Esame' is a poetic exploration of kindness, love, and the passage of time. The song opens with a sense of change and introspection, as the narrator reflects on the differences they feel today. The imagery of fearing God like a mistress and lying in the sun suggests a complex relationship with faith and existence. The narrator's solitary contemplation of their friends and their changes highlights a theme of personal growth and the inevitable transformations that come with life.

The song's chorus emphasizes the sweetness and beauty of a particular person, possibly Esame, who stands out as a beacon of kindness in a world filled with challenges. The mention of a beautiful town with rain, and the nostalgic references to 'Blackberry, Rosemary, Jimmy Crack Corn,' evoke a sense of timelessness and simplicity. The repeated invocation of kindness suggests that it is a guiding principle, a force that can prevail even in difficult times.

As the song progresses, Newsom delves into the idea of effortless plenty and the confusion that comes with understanding our desires and generosity. The vivid imagery of taking photographs of a newborn baby and the crowd gathering like an electric storm captures the awe and wonder of new life. The 'phantom of love' moving among us and the 'wagging ghost tail of a bulldog' are metaphors for the elusive and sometimes confusing nature of love and kindness. The song concludes with a hopeful message, expressing a belief that love will always surround Esame, and offering a small song as a source of comfort in times of fear or sadness.

'Esame' is a tender and introspective piece that encourages listeners to embrace kindness and love, even amidst life's uncertainties. It is a reminder that, despite the hardships we face, there is always room for compassion and connection.