Owl (feat. Sharon Van Etten)

In 'Owl,' She Keeps Bees, featuring Sharon Van Etten, crafts a hauntingly beautiful narrative that delves into themes of resilience, love, and the struggle to maintain connections. The song opens with a mystical invocation, 'I will follow the sound of the owl,' which sets a tone of seeking guidance and wisdom. The owl, often a symbol of knowledge and intuition, suggests a journey of self-discovery and protection, as seen in the lines 'Bless this house / Bless my pillow / Bless your pillow.' This blessing ritual underscores a desire for safety and sanctity in personal spaces.

The recurring theme of desire and unwavering commitment is poignantly expressed in the lines, 'You'll have to send a strong goddamn wind to get rid of me.' This metaphor of a powerful wind represents the immense force required to break the bond between the narrator and their loved one. It speaks to the strength and persistence of their love, suggesting that it is not easily swayed or broken. The repetition of this line emphasizes the narrator's determination to stay connected, no matter the obstacles.

The imagery of 'sandpaper and gum' and 'our arch undone' evokes a sense of wear and tear, hinting at the challenges and imperfections in the relationship. Sandpaper, known for its abrasive quality, and gum, which can be sticky and difficult to remove, symbolize the rough patches and the efforts to hold things together. The 'arch undone' suggests a collapse or a significant strain, yet the song's overall tone remains one of steadfastness and hope. The narrator acknowledges the difficulties but remains committed to overcoming them, embodying a resilient spirit that refuses to be easily dismantled.