Fleet Foxes

Lyrics

26 ContributorsThe Shrine / An Argument LyricsThe Shrine

[Verse 1]
I went down among the dust and pollen
To the old stone fountain in the morning after dawn
Underneath were all these pennies
Fallen from the hands of children
They were there and then were gone

[Pre-Chorus]
And I wonder what became of them
What became of them
Sunlight over me no matter what I do

[Chorus]
Apples in the summer, all cold and sweet
Everyday a'passin complete

[Verse 2]
I'm not one to ever pray for mercy
Or to wish on pennies in the fountain or the shrine
But that day, you know, I left my money
And I thought of you only
All that copper glowing fine

[Pre-Chorus]
And I wonder what became of you
What became of you
Sunlight over me no matter what I do
[Chorus]
Apples in the summer, all cold and sweet
Everyday a passing complete
Apples in the summer, all cold and sweet
Everyday a passing complete

[Bridge]
In the morning, waking up to terrible sunlight
All diffuse like skin abused, the sun is half its size
When you talk you hardly even look in my eyes
In the morning, in the morning
In the doorway, holding every letter that I wrote
In the driveway, pulling away, putting on your coat
In the ocean, washing off my name from your throat
In the morning, in the morning
In the ocean, washing off my name from your throat
In the morning, in the morning

[Outro]
Green apples hang from my tree
They belong only to me
Green apples hang from my green apple tree
They belong only to, only to me
And if I just stay a while here staring at the sea
And the waves break ever closer, ever near to me
I will lay down in the sand and let the ocean lead
Carry me to Innisfree like pollen on the breeze
An Argument

If you're a fan of Fleet Foxes, then you're surely familiar with their knack for crafting beautiful folk-infused tunes that captivate listeners with lush harmonies and introspective lyrics. And when it comes to "The Shrine / An Argument," the band takes their musical prowess to new heights with an epic eight-minute opus that showcases their growth and evolution as artists.

Released as part of their sophomore album, Helplessness Blues, this ambitious track stands out not only for its length but also for its ability to encapsulate all the strengths of the album and the band's maturing sound. Robin Pecknold, the lead vocalist, has even taken to Twitter to defend the song, acknowledging that it may not be immediately enjoyable for everyone but expressing his pride in its emotional depth.

About The Shrine / An Argument

"The Shrine / An Argument" is a remarkable piece of music that delves into complex themes and showcases Fleet Foxes' musical prowess. Clocking in at a staggering eight minutes, the song takes listeners on a journey through various musical landscapes and emotional landscapes, immersing them in an experience that is both perplexing and exhilarating.

One of the standout aspects of this track is its ability to seamlessly weave together different sections, each with its own unique musical identity. From the delicate acoustic guitar-driven melodies to the soaring harmonies and unexpected instrumental flourishes, Fleet Foxes demonstrate their ability to create a rich and multi-dimensional sonic tapestry.

Lyrically, "The Shrine / An Argument" possesses a depth and introspection that is characteristic of Fleet Foxes' songwriting style. Robin Pecknold's poetic storytelling shines through as he explores themes of existentialism, self-reflection, and the complexities of human relationships. The lyrics are open to interpretation, allowing listeners to unlock their own personal meanings and connections.

This song serves as a testament to the band's growth and evolution from their self-titled debut album. While their debut showcased their talent for crafting beautifully melodic folk songs, "The Shrine / An Argument" demonstrates their willingness to push boundaries and experiment with more complex arrangements and structures.

From the intricate interplay between guitars and mandolins to the addition of brass instruments and a hauntingly beautiful woodwind section, Fleet Foxes create a sense of musical vastness and depth that fully immerses the listener. This expansion of their sonic palette adds a newfound richness and complexity to their sound, making "The Shrine / An Argument" a standout track on Helplessness Blues and in their discography as a whole.

Furthermore, the song showcases the band's ability to transition seamlessly between various musical sections and moods, capturing the listener's attention and keeping them engaged throughout its entirety. It ventures into unexpected territories, offering moments of introspection and vulnerability that are contrasted with powerful, intense crescendos, creating a sense of tension and release.

Despite its length and occasional dissonant moments, "The Shrine / An Argument" rewards patient listeners with its beauty and intricacy. It is a song that demands attention and invites repeated listens, unveiling new layers and nuances with each subsequent playthrough.

In the end, "The Shrine / An Argument" stands as a testament to the artistic growth and musical prowess of Fleet Foxes. It is a composition that defies conventional boundaries, blending folk sensibilities with experimental elements to create a truly unique and captivating listening experience. Whether you're a longtime fan of the band or a newcomer to their music, this track is sure to leave a lasting impression and further solidify Fleet Foxes' place as one of the most talented and innovative bands of their generation.

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• Release Date: May 2, 2011
• Artist: Fleet Foxes