Lioness

Sivert Hoyem's 'Lioness' is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of love, vulnerability, and the complexities of emotional boundaries. The song opens with the metaphor of a lioness, symbolizing strength, power, and a fierce protective nature. Hoyem positions himself as a willing plaything, indicating a deep sense of devotion and submission to his partner. The imagery of 'languid carnivores' and the 'lion's roar' evokes a primal, almost animalistic connection that sets his blood racing, highlighting the intensity of their relationship.

The recurring lines, 'It's not right what you've done to your heart,' suggest a deep concern for his partner's emotional well-being. Hoyem seems to be addressing the self-inflicted wounds and emotional barriers that his partner has erected, making it difficult for him to reach her. This emotional distance is further emphasized by the line, 'I can't get to you anymore,' indicating a sense of helplessness and frustration. The 'line drawn in the sand' serves as a metaphor for these emotional boundaries, initially meant for protection but ultimately leading to isolation and misunderstanding.

The song also delves into themes of learning and submission, as Hoyem sings about bowing with 'your foot upon my neck,' portraying a dynamic where he seeks guidance and instruction from his partner. This imagery suggests a complex power dynamic, where love and pain are intertwined. The questions posed in the latter part of the song, such as 'Is your pain of your lover's invention?' and 'Do you carry your lover's cross?' delve into the burdens and sacrifices inherent in their relationship. The song concludes with a sense of inevitability and resignation, acknowledging that some lines, once crossed, can never be undone.