Forwards Beckon Rebound

Adrianne Lenker's 'Forwards Beckon Rebound' is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of fear, connection, and the enigmatic nature of existence. The song opens with the imagery of the Dead Sea, a place known for its stillness and desolation, setting a tone of introspection and solitude. The repeated line, 'I'm not afraid of you now,' suggests a journey from fear to acceptance, possibly addressing a past trauma or a significant relationship. The wind, described as howling like a hound and laughing like a clown, adds a layer of unpredictability and chaos, reflecting the tumultuous emotions involved.

The 'mystery of lack' and 'stabbing stars through my back' are metaphors that evoke a sense of pain and emptiness. These lines suggest an internal struggle, a feeling of being pierced by the very elements that make up the universe. The phrase 'forwards, beckon, rebound' serves as a mantra, indicating a cyclical process of moving forward, being called back, and then bouncing back again. This cyclical nature could represent the ongoing process of healing and self-discovery.

In the second verse, the 'virtual bedroom' and 'pictures that hang in your house' introduce a sense of longing and nostalgia. The 'candescent insects' and 'crosses and fishnecks' add to the surreal and dreamlike quality of the song. The repeated assertion of having 'nothing to pray to you now' could signify a loss of faith or a shift in what the narrator holds sacred. The final verse brings a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, with the narrator pulling a face close and cradling it, embodying both villainy and innocence. This duality highlights the complexity of human relationships and emotions, making 'Forwards Beckon Rebound' a deeply resonant and thought-provoking piece.