Wild Folk

Sleep Walking Animals' song 'Wild Folk' is a poetic exploration of freedom, love, and the primal connection to nature. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a life lived on the fringes, away from societal norms and constraints. The opening lines, 'Been a week with the banshees / Frozen in the mud pit as they scream,' evoke a sense of being trapped in a chaotic, almost supernatural environment. This imagery sets the stage for a narrative that delves into the raw, untamed aspects of human existence.

The recurring theme of being 'cut off from the real world' and living 'a little freer' suggests a deliberate choice to abandon conventional life for a more liberated, albeit challenging, existence. The phrase 'Burn all ya clothes now we’re wild folk' symbolizes shedding societal expectations and embracing a more natural, unrestrained way of living. This act of rebellion is not just physical but also emotional and spiritual, as the characters in the song find solace and strength in their connection to each other and the earth.

The chorus, 'When it’s time / To lay me in the ground / No weight / Of the earth / Can hold me down / Not when you’re around,' speaks to the transcendent power of love and companionship. Despite the inevitable end that awaits everyone, the presence of a loved one provides a sense of immortality and unyielding spirit. The song concludes with a reflection on identity and transformation, 'Reflections in the mirror / Don’t recognise the man I saw / But I'm glowing when I hear her / Speak to me the way she always did before.' This suggests that love and connection have the power to redefine and illuminate one's sense of self, even in the face of profound change.

'Wild Folk' is a celebration of the untamed spirit, the power of love, and the beauty of living authentically. It invites listeners to consider what it means to truly live free and to find strength in the bonds that tie us to each other and the natural world.