All and Everyone

PJ Harvey's song "All and Everyone" is a poignant and haunting reflection on the omnipresence of death during wartime. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a battlefield, where death is not just a possibility but a constant, pervasive presence. The imagery of death being in the air, in the sounds, and even in the laughter and drinking water, underscores the inescapable nature of mortality in such a setting. The reference to Bolton's Ridge and the ancient fortress, shelled by a million bullets, evokes a sense of historical continuity, suggesting that death in war is a timeless and universal experience.

The song's repetition of the phrase "advancing in the sun" juxtaposes the life-giving force of the sun with the death that surrounds the soldiers. This contrast highlights the absurdity and tragedy of war, where life and death are intertwined in a grim dance. The sun, usually a symbol of life and hope, becomes a witness to the carnage, fixing its eyes on everyone and rattling the bones of the fallen soldiers. The line "Death is now, and now, and now" emphasizes the relentless and immediate nature of death in war, leaving no room for escape or reprieve.

PJ Harvey's evocative lyrics and somber tone invite listeners to reflect on the futility and horror of war. The song serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of conflict, urging us to consider the lives lost and the suffering endured. By personifying death and making it an omnipresent character in the narrative, Harvey forces us to confront the reality of war in a deeply personal and emotional way. The refrain "Sing 'death to all and everyone'" becomes a chilling anthem, encapsulating the despair and inevitability of death in the context of war.