She Does The Woods

The Last Shadow Puppets' song 'She Does The Woods' paints a vivid picture of a free-spirited woman who finds solace and identity in nature. The lyrics describe her as someone who is deeply connected to the natural world, often seen howling at trees and getting dirt on her knees. This imagery suggests a wild, untamed spirit who is at home in the wilderness, far removed from the constraints of society. The narrator is captivated by her, longing to be dragged away into her world, away from the mundane paths that others follow.

The song contrasts the woman's wild nature with the ordinary people who pass by, oblivious to the beauty and freedom she embodies. These people are described as wearing 'sensible shoes' and 'purple cagoules,' symbolizing their conformity and lack of imagination. In contrast, the woman jumps into rivers and navigates the woods with an ease and grace that the narrator deeply admires. The repeated line 'You’ll wish you’re the water' emphasizes the narrator's desire to be as close to her as possible, to be a part of her world.

The lyrics also delve into the transformative power of this woman's presence. She turns the narrator's 'back to the earth,' grounding him and showing him where he truly belongs. The natural imagery, such as the 'Spirograph of branches that dance on the breeze,' adds a layer of poetic beauty to the song, highlighting the intricate and mesmerizing patterns of nature. This woman, who 'does the woods' like no one else, becomes a symbol of freedom, beauty, and a deeper connection to the earth, inspiring the narrator to see the world through her eyes.