Long Snake Moan

PJ Harvey's 'Long Snake Moan' is a haunting and visceral exploration of desire, power, and transformation. The song's lyrics are steeped in rich, evocative imagery that conjures a sense of both danger and allure. The repeated references to 'deep salt water' and 'drowning' suggest a powerful, almost overwhelming force of attraction that pulls the listener into a dark, immersive experience. This water imagery can be seen as a metaphor for the depths of human emotion and the consuming nature of intense passion.

The invocation of religious and mythological elements, such as 'Call me, Lazarus' and 'Raise me up lord,' adds a layer of spiritual and existential significance to the song. Lazarus, a figure from the Bible who was resurrected by Jesus, symbolizes rebirth and transformation. By calling upon this imagery, Harvey suggests a desire for renewal and escape from the confines of her current state. The repeated plea for help and the mention of 'voodoo' further emphasize the theme of seeking power and control over one's destiny, blending elements of mysticism and spirituality.

The phrase 'long snake moan' itself is a potent symbol, evoking both sensuality and danger. The snake, often associated with temptation and sin, combined with the word 'moan,' creates a sense of primal, almost forbidden desire. Harvey's raw, emotive delivery of the lyrics enhances this feeling, making the listener feel the intensity of her longing and the complexity of her emotions. The song's repetitive structure and hypnotic rhythm mirror the cyclical nature of desire and the inescapable pull of the forces she describes.