The Beggar Lover (Three)

Swans' 'The Beggar Lover (Three)' is a haunting exploration of existential dread and the inevitable transformation that comes with the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a slow, relentless force taking over the narrator, symbolizing the inescapable nature of change and decay. This force is omnipresent, found in the food they eat, the air they breathe, and even in the people they love. The imagery of a 'black shadow shimmering just beneath their skin' suggests an underlying darkness or inevitability that cannot be escaped, no matter how much love or effort is put forth.

The repetition of 'Milky Michael, sleepy Michael' introduces a surreal, almost childlike element to the song, contrasting sharply with the heavy existential themes. This could be interpreted as a coping mechanism, a way to find comfort in the face of overwhelming dread. The inclusion of the nursery rhyme 'This old man, he played one' further emphasizes this contrast, blending innocence with the harsh reality of life's relentless march forward. The nursery rhyme serves as a reminder of simpler times, perhaps a longing for the innocence of childhood in the face of adult fears and responsibilities.

The latter part of the song delves deeper into the abstract, with lines like 'I can see it but not see it' and 'I can touch it but not hold it.' These paradoxical statements reflect the elusive nature of understanding and control. The narrator grapples with the concept of existence, trying to grasp something that is inherently intangible. The repeated phrase 'I unfold it' suggests an ongoing process of discovery and acceptance, even if the ultimate truth remains out of reach. The song concludes with a call to action, 'let's go,' indicating a readiness to face the unknown, despite the fear and uncertainty that accompany it.