Meaning of NFWMB by Hozier

"NFWMB" by Hozier is a haunting and evocative song that delves into themes of possessive love and the desire to protect one's beloved at any cost. The overall theme of the song is the overwhelming sense of ownership and protectiveness that the narrator feels towards his partner, expressed through vivid and captivating lyrics. Each lyric adds depth to this theme, exploring different facets of love, power, and sacrifice.The first standout lyric in the song is "To Bethlehem, it slouched." This line creates a dark and eerie atmosphere, evoking religious imagery. It suggests that the narrator's love interest is something otherworldly, almost divine. This lyric signifies the initial awe and fascination the narrator feels upon first encountering their beloved, setting the stage for the possessive nature of their love.Another significant lyric is "Give your heart and soul to charity, 'cause the rest of you, the best of you, honey, belongs to me." This line speaks to the controlling nature of the narrator's love. It suggests that the beloved should donate everything they have to others, but their true essence, the "best" part of them, is reserved exclusively for the narrator. It portrays a possessiveness bordering on obsession, with the narrator asserting complete dominance over their partner.The pre-chorus lyrics further develop the theme of possessive love. "Ain't it a gentle sound, the rolling in the graves? Ain't it like thunder under earth, the sound it makes?" These lines create a chilling contrast between the sweet, gentle nature of love and the underlying darkness that comes with it. It suggests that love has the power to both bring life and destroy. The narrator finds solace in the thought that their love is so powerful that it could shake the very foundations of the earth.In the chorus, the lyrics "Nothing fucks with my baby, nothing can get a look in on my baby" reinforce the possessive nature of the narrator's love. It intensifies the notion that nothing and no one can come between them or threaten their love. This line captures the exaggerated protectiveness of the narrator, as they see their beloved as something to be fiercely guarded and defended against any external influence.Moving into the second verse, the lyrics "If I was born as a blackthorn tree, I'd wanna be felled by you, held by you" introduce a metaphorical element to the song. The blackthorn tree symbolizes strength and protection, but it desires to be brought down by the narrator's love and given purpose. It explores the idea that surrendering to the power of love can be transformative and meaningful, even in the face of potential destruction.The following lyric, "Fuel the pyre of your enemies," suggests a willingness to go to great lengths to protect their partner from harm. It speaks to the narrator's readiness to fight and sacrifice for their beloved, even if it means eliminating those who pose a threat. This line taps into the underlying darkness and fierce determination that lies within the narrator's love.The second pre-chorus lyric, "Ain't it warming you, the world gone up in flames? Ain't it the life of you, your lighting of the blaze?" explores the theme of destruction and rebirth through love. It suggests that the narrator finds comfort and fulfillment in their love, despite the chaos and destruction that surrounds them. The heat and flames symbolize the intensity and passion of their relationship, ultimately leading to a renewal of the self.In conclusion, "NFWMB" by Hozier delves into the theme of possessive love, exploring the lengths one would go to protect and possess their beloved. Each lyric in the song adds a layer of depth and emotion to this theme, unveiling unexpected aspects of love, power, and sacrifice. From the initial fascination to the willingness to destroy for love, the song paints a complex and captivating picture of a love built on intense ownership and protection.