The Kiss

Judee Sill's song 'The Kiss' is a poetic exploration of love, spirituality, and transcendence. The lyrics are imbued with a sense of mysticism and ethereal beauty, reflecting Sill's unique ability to blend folk music with deeply spiritual themes. The song opens with the imagery of love rising from the mists, suggesting a love that is both elusive and divine. The 'holy breath' and 'sweet communion of a kiss' evoke a sacred connection, one that transcends the physical and touches the soul. This sets the tone for a journey through both earthly and celestial realms, guided by the light of love and spiritual awakening.

The recurring motif of the sun 'siftin' thru the grey' symbolizes enlightenment and hope piercing through the darkness. This light reaches the narrator, teaching them how to 'give my heart away,' which can be interpreted as a lesson in vulnerability and the transformative power of love. The imagery of a 'crystal choir' and 'stars burstin' in the sky' further enhances the celestial atmosphere, suggesting a connection between the earthly experience of love and a higher, cosmic order. The mention of 'dyin' is done' and a 'new song' being sung hints at the idea of rebirth and the eternal nature of the soul, reinforcing the theme of transcendence.

In the latter part of the song, the 'sparklin' hosts' and 'firey beams' descending into dreams symbolize divine intervention and comfort. These celestial beings soothe the narrator, promising to 'wipe all your tears away,' which can be seen as a metaphor for healing and the ultimate peace that comes with spiritual enlightenment. The song concludes with a return to the initial imagery of love rising from the mists, bringing the listener full circle to the idea that love is a divine, ever-present force that guides and transforms us. Judee Sill's 'The Kiss' is a beautiful meditation on the interplay between love, spirituality, and the eternal journey of the soul.