Heaven

PJ Harvey's song 'Heaven' paints a vivid picture of an idealized world where freedom and joy are abundant. The lyrics express a deep appreciation for the simple pleasures of life, such as breathing clean air and walking freely. This sense of liberation is contrasted with the oppressive reality where one's actions and words are constantly monitored, as indicated by the repeated line, 'Without being picked up by the police.' This juxtaposition highlights the longing for a world where personal freedom is not curtailed by societal constraints.

The chorus, 'If heaven is a place on earth, then I must be on the moon,' suggests a sense of disconnection from this idealized world. The moon metaphorically represents a distant, almost unreachable place, emphasizing the gap between the current reality and the desired utopia. The repetition of the desire to 'be getting there soon' underscores the urgency and yearning for this better world. This longing is further emphasized by the idea of releasing tension 'with the pushing of a button,' symbolizing a wish for effortless relief from life's stresses.

The final verse introduces a biblical reference to the story of Adam and Eve, with the line 'Then she picked the apple and gave it to him.' This allusion raises questions about knowledge, choice, and consequences. The repeated question, 'Did she know what she was doing?' suggests a contemplation of the awareness and implications of one's actions. This reference adds a layer of complexity to the song, hinting at the idea that the pursuit of an ideal world may come with its own set of challenges and moral dilemmas.