Brave Soldier

Russian Red's song 'Brave Soldier' delves into the intricate dynamics of love, particularly from a woman's perspective. The lyrics explore the intensity and fervor that often accompany a woman's love for a man. The repeated lines, 'When a woman loves a man, all she does is shout' and 'all she is, is loud,' suggest that love can be overwhelming and all-consuming, leading to expressions of passion that are both vocal and visible. This portrayal challenges the stereotypical notion of quiet, subdued love, instead presenting it as something powerful and assertive.

The chorus, with its plea for the woman to be 'braver, and solid, and stranger,' introduces a desire for transformation. It hints at the complexities of relationships, where one partner may wish for the other to exhibit qualities of strength and resilience. The use of the word 'stranger' adds an intriguing layer, suggesting a longing for mystery or a return to the initial stages of the relationship when everything was new and exciting. This reflects a common human desire to rekindle the spark and maintain individuality within a partnership.

The latter part of the song shifts to a more existential reflection on life and death. The lines 'Are they gonna die? Well, we're gonna die one day someday' acknowledge the inevitability of mortality. However, the imagery of 'standing up and holding hands, sweating and dancing, in shiny purple shiny fields' evokes a sense of unity and joy in the face of life's transience. The declaration 'I ain't gonna die, 'cause I changed my mind' can be interpreted as a metaphor for choosing to live fully and embrace the present moment, despite the uncertainties of the future. This powerful conclusion underscores the themes of courage and transformation that run throughout the song.