Big Thief

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
You have a mythological beauty
You have the eye of someone I have seen
Outside of ordinary situations
Even outside of dreams
You lie in bed at night and watch the lines
Of headlights through your screen
There is a child inside you
Who’s trying to raise a child in me

[Chorus]
If you wanna leave
You just have to say
You’re all caught up inside
But you know the way

[Verse 2]
You cut the flesh of your left thumb
Using your boyfriend’s knife
Seventeen, you took his cum
And you gave birth to your first life
You gave Andrew a family who you thought
Could love and take better care
I have an older brother I don’t know
He could be anywhere
[Chorus]
If you wanna leave
You just have to say
You’re all caught up inside
But you know the way
You’re all caught up inside
But you know the way

[Verse 3]
Rented a house in Nisswa, Minnesota
Shrapnel and oil cans, rhubarb in the yard
I built a ladder out of metal pieces
Father was working hard
Standing beneath the oak tree by the front door
You were inside baking bread
Sister came out and put her arms around me
Blood gushing from my head
You held me in the backseat with a dishrag
Soaking up blood with your eye
I was just five and you were twenty-seven
Praying, “Don’t let my baby die.”

[Chorus]
If you wanna leave
You just have to say
You’re all caught up inside
But you know the way
You’re all caught up inside
But you know the way
[Outro]
So much more to live your life
To walk the floor
To say goodnight
Do you leave your light on?
Do you leave your light on?
You’re all caught up inside
But you know the way
You’re all caught up inside
But you know the way
You’re all caught up inside
But you know the way
You’re all caught up inside
But you know the way

There are few things in this world that can capture the beauty and complexity of human emotions quite like music. It has the power to transport us back to certain moments in our lives, to make us feel things we didn't even know we were capable of feeling. And in the case of Big Thief's song, "Mythological Beauty," that power is on full display.

"Mythological Beauty" is the first single from Big Thief's sophomore album, "Capacity." It is a mesmerizing track that delves deep into the sacrifices that young parents are often forced to make. The song is a reflection on vocalist Adrienne Lenker's childhood and her relationship with her mother, intertwining personal experiences with universal themes in a way that is both haunting and deeply relatable.

Lenker's introspective lyrics draw upon a particularly scary event from her past, allowing listeners to accompany her on a journey of self-discovery and emotional growth. It is a meditation on the complexities of life, on the blurry line between beauty and pain, and on the resilience of the human spirit.

The song opens with gentle strumming of the guitar, setting a somber and introspective tone from the very beginning. Lenker's ethereal vocals soon join in, carrying the weight of her emotions with haunting clarity. As the track progresses, the instrumentation gradually builds, adding layers of depth and intensity to the already poignant lyrics.

What makes "Mythological Beauty" truly stand out is the way it seamlessly blends the personal with the universal. Lenker's portrayal of her own experiences as a young parent strikes a chord with listeners of all backgrounds, reminding us of the sacrifices we all make in the pursuit of love and happiness. It is a testament to the transformative power of music, to its ability to connect us on a deeper level and to help us make sense of our own lives.

The song's title, "Mythological Beauty," serves as a reflection of not only the song's subject matter but also of Lenker's lyrical prowess. Through her poetic and evocative storytelling, she manages to paint vivid images and emotions, inviting the listener into her world. It is a song that touches upon the complexities of human existence, reminding us that even in our darkest moments, there is beauty to be found.

Big Thief's musicianship shines through in "Mythological Beauty," with each instrument playing a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and atmosphere of the song. The gentle strumming of the guitar interweaves seamlessly with the haunting melodies of the violin, creating a lush and immersive sonic landscape.

Lyrically, the song is a testament to Lenker's ability to capture the subtleties and nuances of human emotion. Her words are raw and honest, with every line dripping with vulnerability. It is this authenticity that allows listeners to connect with the song on a deep and personal level, finding solace and understanding in the shared experiences of the artist.

As the track reaches its crescendo, the emotions become almost tangible, hovering in the air, and enveloping the listener in a wave of catharsis. It is a powerful and transformative experience that leaves a lasting impression.

"Mythological Beauty" is a true gem in Big Thief's discography, a song that showcases the band's artistic prowess and their ability to create music that resonates with people on a profound level. It is a testament to the power of vulnerability, of embracing our past and finding beauty in our flaws. With its haunting melodies and introspective lyrics, this song is a reminder that sometimes the most beautiful things in life are born out of pain and struggle.

About Mythological Beauty

"Mythological Beauty" is a song by Big Thief, released as the first single from their sophomore album, "Capacity." The track delves into the sacrifices young parents are forced to make and reflects on vocalist Adrienne Lenker's own childhood and relationship with her mother. It is a profoundly introspective and emotional song, blending personal experiences with universal themes of resilience and beauty amidst pain. The instrumentation, featuring delicate guitar strumming and haunting violin melodies, enhances the song's atmospheric and immersive qualities. Through raw and vulnerable lyrics, Lenker captivates listeners, offering a cathartic and transformative musical experience.

• Release Date: April 5, 2017
• Artist: Big Thief