Meaning of Shrike by Hozier

The Hozier song titled 'Shrike' is a profound and thought-provoking piece that explores themes of love, loss, redemption, and transformation. The overall theme of the song can be interpreted as the transformative power of love and its ability to shape and define us as individuals.One standout lyric in the song is "I couldn't utter my love when it counted, Ah, but I'm singing like a bird 'bout it now." This lyric not only expresses the regret of not expressing love when it was most needed but also highlights the idea of redemption and the power of reflection. It suggests that even though the opportunity to express love may have been missed in the past, one can still find solace in expressing it through art, music, or any other form of creative outlet.Another significant lyric is "Words hung above but never would form, Like a cry at the final breath that is drawn, Remember me, love, when I'm reborn." This lyric explores the theme of unspoken feelings and the longing for them to be acknowledged. It emphasizes the idea that words left unspoken can haunt us and emphasizes the importance of remembering loved ones even after their physical presence is gone. It captures the bittersweet nature of love and the desire to be remembered even after death.The line "All of that goodness is going with you now" reflects on the transformative power of love and how it can shape and change us as individuals. It suggests that love has the ability to bring out our best qualities, but it also raises the question of what happens when that love is gone. The lyric discusses the departure of someone who brought goodness and light into one's life and hints at the pain of losing that positive influence."Dragging along, following your form, Hung like the pelt of some prey you had worn" is a lyric that metaphorically compares the act of following someone to being a hunted prey. It delves into the theme of dependency and the sometimes unhealthy dynamics that can exist within relationships. It portrays the idea of losing one's individuality and becoming consumed by the other person's presence. This lyric explores the darker side of love and highlights the importance of maintaining a sense of self amidst the intensity of romantic relationships."I fled to the city with so much discounted, Ah, but I'm flying like a bird to you now, Back to the hedgerows where bodies are mounted" is a lyric that touches on the theme of self-discovery and the search for identity. It suggests that the protagonist initially sought refuge and escape in the city, but ultimately realizes that their true path leads them back to a more natural and authentic existence. The imagery of the hedgerows where bodies are mounted adds a sense of mystery and intrigue, symbolizing the challenges and sacrifices that come with personal growth.Each of these standout lyrics combines to create an overarching theme of love as a catalyst for transformation, growth, and self-discovery. The song explores the complexities of love, acknowledging both its power to bring joy and its potential to cause pain. It emphasizes the importance of expressing emotions and cherishing moments of connection, as well as the significance of introspection and personal growth. Ultimately, 'Shrike' invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences with love and its impact on their lives, encouraging self-expression, resilience, and the pursuit of personal happiness.