Little Soldiers

The Crane Wives' song 'Little Soldiers' is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the emotional battles that often accompany relationships. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship that, despite its deep affection, is fraught with struggles and eventual heartbreak. The metaphor of 'little soldiers in the trenches' suggests that the couple's words and actions were like soldiers fighting a war, hinting at the constant battles and efforts to keep the relationship alive. The imagery of marching towards 'ruin and despair' while holding hands underscores the idea that even in the face of inevitable destruction, there was a sense of unity and shared experience.

The repeated lines 'I swear that I loved you' and 'I swear that you loved me' emphasize the sincerity and depth of the emotions involved. These declarations serve as a reminder of the genuine love that existed, despite the pain and conflict. The mention of offering up bones beneath the table and dogs licking fingers introduces a darker, almost sacrificial element to the relationship, suggesting betrayal or a sense of being used. Yet, the act of holding each other at night indicates a lingering connection and comfort amidst the turmoil.

The song's climax reveals a sense of resignation and acceptance of the 'honest loss.' The aftermath, described as ringing with songs sung and words sent home in boxes, evokes the finality and the remnants of what once was. The imagery of fighting 'with tooth and nail before the flag had flown' but realizing the other person was already gone highlights the futility of the struggle and the realization that the end was inevitable. 'Little Soldiers' captures the essence of a love that was intense and real but ultimately could not withstand the battles it faced, leaving behind a haunting sense of what could have been.