Patterns

Laura Marling's song 'Patterns' delves into the cyclical nature of life, exploring themes of growth, repetition, and the passage of time. The song opens with a character named Zena, who is described as having 'squared her toes' and 'friendly nose,' suggesting a blend of maturity and enduring innocence. Zena, once a ballerina, now has her 'feet on the ground,' symbolizing a transition from youthful dreams to grounded reality. This imagery sets the stage for the song's exploration of life's repetitive patterns and the inevitability of change.

As the song progresses, Marling touches on the idea of legacy and the continuation of life through generations. The lyrics 'To have your children, your flock of birds / Your branch among the wood' evoke a sense of natural progression and the interconnectedness of life. The struggle to articulate the beauty and absurdity of life to the next generation is poignantly captured in the line, 'You'll try to tell them, but you're lost for words / 'Cause it's so absurd, how good.' This reflects the often indescribable nature of life's experiences and the difficulty in conveying them to others.

The final verse brings the theme of patterns full circle, with Marling reflecting on the passage of time and the realization that 'we're patterns in repeat / And we'll always be.' This acknowledgment of life's repetitive cycles is both comforting and sobering, suggesting that while we may strive for individuality, we are ultimately part of a larger, unending pattern. The song's contemplative tone and rich imagery invite listeners to reflect on their own lives and the patterns that shape them, making 'Patterns' a deeply resonant and thought-provoking piece.