Meaning of Folly by Mitski

In the hauntingly beautiful song "Folly" by Mitski, the artist explores the intricate web of emotions that arise from falling in love. The overall theme of the song revolves around the complexities of desire, vulnerability, and the internal struggle to navigate a relationship. Mitski delves deep into the world of emotions and paints a vivid picture with her lyrics, allowing listeners to wander through the landscape of love.One standout lyric in the song is "In my mind, you're a crow, a spirit animal I am wont to know." Here, Mitski delves into the symbolic imagery of the crow, representing inner desires and instincts. This particular lyric captures the duality of love, where someone becomes an enigmatic figure, both desirable and unknown. The crow symbolizes a longing to understand the depths of their partner's character while simultaneously embracing the inherent mystery within them.Continuing further, another significant verse is "In my dreams, you're a bathtub running; you are warm and tender and bubbling. Oh, you are cold and bristling and struggling." Through these lines, Mitski explores the fragility of relationships and the fluctuations of emotions that come with love. The juxtaposition between the tender warmth and cold struggle mirrors the ebb and flow of a connection, where moments of bliss confront moments of turmoil. These polarities highlight the paradoxical nature of love, encouraging individuals to embrace both the smooth and turbulent aspects of it.The song also delves into themes of self-discovery and personal growth. Mitski expresses this through the lyric "Folly, I was falling; I was taller than I wanted to be." This line encapsulates the transformative power of love, how it can make us feel larger than life while simultaneously forcing us to confront our own vulnerabilities. Sometimes, the act of falling in love can challenge our preconceived notions of ourselves, revealing hidden parts of our identity and prompting personal growth.In a broader perspective, "Folly" explores the idea of relinquishing control and surrendering to vulnerability. It delves into the notion that love often dances on the thin line between ecstasy and suffering, and it is in this delicate balance that its true beauty lies. By embracing vulnerability, one can experience the depth and intensity of emotions that love encompasses. Mitski's lyrics evoke a sense of longing, urging listeners to fully embrace the intricate complexities of love and its transformative power.Like a fleeting dream or a melody that lingers, "Folly" captivates the heart and mind, guiding listeners through a labyrinth of emotions. Mitski's ability to intertwine poetic imagery with introspective musings creates an ethereal experience for the audience. The themes explored in the song echo the universal experiences of love and serve as a reminder to embrace the turbulent beauty that accompanies it. Through her evocative lyrics, Mitski invites us to navigate the treacherous terrain of love, where vulnerability and self-discovery intertwine to create moments of pure emotional transcendence.