Stones

Sonic Youth's song 'Stones' delves into themes of memory, loss, and the lingering presence of the past. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world where the past and present coexist, symbolized by 'stones' that seem to hold memories and emotions. The 'lights on the stones' suggest an attempt to illuminate or understand these memories, while the 'backed-up drain' could symbolize unresolved issues or emotions that have accumulated over time. The mention of 'lovers' and 'star' hints at a romantic or intimate connection that is being revisited or remembered.

The recurring lines 'The dead are alright with me' and 'There's danger' juxtapose acceptance of the past with a sense of foreboding. This duality suggests that while the past is a part of us, it can also be unsettling or dangerous if not properly acknowledged. The phrase 'We're not gonna run away' reinforces a commitment to facing these memories and emotions head-on, rather than avoiding them. The 'lonely home' could represent a state of isolation or emotional desolation that the speaker is trying to bring light to, perhaps for themselves or someone else.

The imagery of 'camera on the haunted stones' and 'blood-shadow gentle painted scorn' evokes a sense of capturing and confronting the darker aspects of one's history. The 'dancin' ink across your skin' and 'hieroglyphic-lover nature-friend' suggest that these memories and emotions are deeply ingrained, almost like tattoos that tell a story. Sonic Youth's experimental and often abstract musical style complements these themes, creating a haunting and introspective atmosphere that encourages listeners to reflect on their own past and the ways it continues to shape their present.