Crow

Bear's Den's song 'Crow' is a poignant exploration of grief, memory, and the indelible marks left by those we've lost. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with the lingering presence of a loved one who has passed away. The crow, a symbol often associated with death and the afterlife, serves as a metaphor for the deceased, whose memory continues to haunt the narrator. The imagery of black feathers and the crow's presence 'perched deep in my soul' underscores the inescapable nature of this grief.

The song delves into specific memories, such as the arrival of the loved one in December 1995, and the sensory details like the smell of John Player Specials cigarettes. These details ground the song in a tangible reality, making the loss feel all the more real and personal. The reference to Daedalus, a figure from Greek mythology who crafted wings for himself and his son Icarus, adds a layer of complexity. It suggests that the loved one provided the narrator with a sense of freedom and escape, only to leave them behind, much like Icarus fell from the sky.

The emotional weight of the song is further amplified by the impact of the loved one's death on the narrator's mother, who is depicted as being unable to move on, staring out the window and smoking the same brand of cigarettes. The song captures the ripple effect of loss, affecting not just the narrator but their entire family. The repeated attempts to 'push you down' and 'cut you out' reflect the struggle to move past the grief, but the persistent presence of the crow signifies that some losses are too profound to ever fully overcome. The song's melancholic tone and haunting melody complement its lyrical depth, making 'Crow' a deeply moving tribute to the enduring nature of love and loss.