Is This Desire?

PJ Harvey's song 'Is This Desire?' delves into the complexities of human longing and the quest for transcendence through the lens of a relationship between two characters, Joseph and Dawn. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of their journey, both physical and emotional, as they navigate the landscapes of their desires and fears. The song opens with Joseph walking endlessly, symbolizing a search or a journey that seems never-ending. The sunset and the cooling of their desire suggest a waning passion, but Dawn's suggestion to build a fire indicates a desire to rekindle what has been lost.

The imagery of the sun dressing the trees in green and Joe feeling like a king evokes a sense of renewal and empowerment. Dawn's bare neck and feet, along with the sweetness in her golden hair, symbolize vulnerability and purity. Her declaration of not being scared and the secrets in Joe's eyes hint at a deeper, unspoken connection between them. The recurring question, 'Is this desire enough to lift us higher?' reflects an existential inquiry into whether their love and longing can elevate them beyond their current state.

The song's chorus, with its repetition of 'Is this desire enough?' underscores the uncertainty and the constant questioning that accompanies deep emotional connections. The mention of standing 'when we're dead, between these lands' suggests a desire for a love that transcends even death, a love that exists in a liminal space between life and the afterlife. The song concludes with the same question, leaving the listener pondering the nature of desire and whether it is ever truly enough to lift us above our earthly confines.