How They Suffer

Swans' song 'How They Suffer' is a poignant exploration of the human condition, focusing on the physical and emotional toll of illness and aging. The lyrics are a monologue, seemingly from an elderly person recounting their struggles with deteriorating health. The speaker describes their blindness due to a detached retina and glaucoma, painting a vivid picture of the relentless decline of their physical abilities. This narrative is not just about the loss of sight but also symbolizes the broader theme of losing control over one's body and life, a universal fear that resonates deeply with listeners.

The song's structure, with its conversational tone and fragmented sentences, mirrors the disjointed and often confusing experience of living with chronic illness. The dialogue between the speaker and an unseen interlocutor adds a layer of intimacy and vulnerability, making the listener feel as though they are eavesdropping on a deeply personal moment. This approach amplifies the emotional weight of the song, as it captures the mundane yet profound details of the speaker's daily life—aches, pains, and the simple act of walking around the house.

Swans, known for their experimental and often intense musical style, use this song to delve into themes of suffering and resilience. The band's choice to focus on such a raw and unfiltered portrayal of human frailty challenges the listener to confront uncomfortable truths about mortality and the inevitable decline that comes with aging. 'How They Suffer' is not just a song but a meditation on the human experience, urging us to reflect on our own vulnerabilities and the ways we cope with the passage of time.