| Title | Artist | Writer/Composer | Album | Release Date | Genre | Producer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mythological Beauty | Big Thief | Adrianne Lenker | Capacity | April 5, 2017 | Indie Folk, Alternative, Indie Rock | Andrew Sarlo |
Big Thief’s song “Mythological Beauty” is a deeply introspective and heartfelt track that explores the sacrifices and challenges faced by young parents. It serves as the opening single from their sophomore album, “Capacity,” showcasing the band’s ability to deliver raw and emotionally charged music.
In “Mythological Beauty,” lead vocalist Adrienne Lenker delves into her own personal experiences, reflecting on her childhood and her relationship with her mother. The song acts as a meditation on the burdens that parents, particularly young ones, carry upon their shoulders. Lenker’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of the sacrifices both literal and emotional that are required of parents.
The opening verse of the song presents the listener with the notion of a “mythological beauty,” a figure that possesses a captivating and otherworldly allure. This beauty is someone who has witnessed extraordinary things and exists outside the realm of ordinary life and even dreams. It sets the stage for the deeper exploration of the struggles faced by parents.
Lenker continues the narrative by drawing attention to a child inside the protagonist, representing the innocence and vulnerability within each of us. This child is attempting to guide and nurture the parental side of Lenker, highlighting the challenges faced by young parents who must simultaneously learn to care for themselves and their children.
The chorus of the song melodically captures the complexity of the situation. It exclaims, “If you wanna leave, you just have to say. You’re all caught up inside, but you know the way.” These lines speak to the conflict faced by parents who may feel overwhelmed or trapped by their responsibilities, yet they ultimately understand that they have the power to make their own choices.
To further illustrate the sacrifices made by parents, Lenker shares a particularly vivid and personal story in the second verse. She recounts an incident where she cut her thumb using her boyfriend’s knife and subsequently gave birth at the age of seventeen. This event symbolizes the dramatic transition into adulthood and the immense responsibility thrust upon her shoulders at a young age.
Lenker also mentions her brother whom she does not know, highlighting the fractured nature of her family and the lingering sense of uncertainty that comes with it. This line emphasizes the way in which the sacrifices made by parents can impact not only their own lives but also the lives of their children and extended family.
The third verse of “Mythological Beauty” takes the listener to a specific moment in Lenker’s childhood. She vividly recalls an incident where she injured herself, and her mother came to her aid. This display of love and care is juxtaposed with the imagery of blood gushing from her head. It speaks to the intensity of the emotional and physical challenges faced by parents as they try to protect and care for their children.
The song’s outro brings the listener back to the present, acknowledging that there is still much life left to live. It asks the question of whether the light will be left on, symbolizing the hope and resilience that parents carry within themselves despite the hardships they face.
Personally, “Mythological Beauty” holds a special place in my heart. The raw vulnerability and honesty in Lenker’s lyrics resonate deeply with my own experiences as a young parent. The song captures the range of emotions that come with the journey of raising a child, from the overwhelming sense of responsibility to the moments of immense joy and love.
The haunting melody and poetic storytelling in “Mythological Beauty” make it a song that can transport you to a different world. The personal nature of the lyrics and Lenker’s evocative vocal delivery allow listeners to connect on a profound level, regardless of their own experiences with parenthood.
Big Thief’s “Mythological Beauty” serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and challenges faced by parents. It celebrates the resilience, love, and determination that lie at the heart of the parenting journey, making it a song that will continue to resonate with listeners for years to come.
