Smashed Birds
Sóley
A Journey of Transformation and Liberation in 'Smashed Birds'
Sóley's song 'Smashed Birds' is a hauntingly poetic exploration of personal transformation and liberation. The lyrics are rich with metaphors and imagery that convey a journey of self-discovery and emotional release. The song begins with the protagonist walking a rope, symbolizing a precarious path or a delicate balance in life. The 'bitty little birds' mentioned in the lyrics could represent fragile aspects of the protagonist's past or emotions that have been documented and carried along the way.
As the song progresses, the protagonist reaches a significant turning point, symbolized by arriving at a house floating on water. This house could represent a past relationship or a significant part of the protagonist's life. The act of smashing the birds and cutting off their feathers to make a beautiful dress signifies a powerful transformation. It suggests that the protagonist is taking control of their past, repurposing pain and memories into something new and beautiful, symbolizing rebirth and empowerment.
The lyrics also delve into the theme of consuming and internalizing words and memories. By eating the words and tearing the pages, the protagonist is metaphorically digesting and processing their past experiences. The final act of speaking these words in a garden and then flying away signifies liberation and the creation of a new identity. The garden, with its flowers, trees, and bees, represents a place of growth and renewal. The protagonist's journey ends with a sense of freedom, having danced through the night and flown away by morning, leaving behind the burdens of the past.