Pagan Poetry

Björk's 'Pagan Poetry' is a song that delves into the depths of human emotion, exploring the complex interplay between love and the primal, often hidden aspects of our nature. The lyrics suggest a journey through darkness and the discovery of an 'accurate copy' or 'blueprint' of pleasure within oneself, which could be interpreted as a metaphor for self-awareness and the uncovering of one's desires and instincts. The 'swirling black lilies totally ripe' evoke a sense of something beautiful and full-grown emerging from the darkness, possibly symbolizing the maturity and full realization of love or passion.

The song's chorus, with its repeated lines 'It's pagan poetry,' hints at something ancient and raw in the nature of the emotions being expressed. The term 'pagan' often refers to earthy, pre-Christian belief systems that celebrate natural forces and human instincts. Björk's use of the phrase 'pagan poetry' could be a way of saying that the feelings she's describing are fundamental, natural, and timeless, like poetry that transcends the ages. The repetition of 'I love him' and 'She loves him' serves to emphasize the intensity and singularity of these feelings, while the lines about keeping oneself to oneself versus the desire to 'hand myself over' reflect the internal conflict between self-preservation and the vulnerability that comes with deep love.

The song's structure and Björk's unique vocal delivery add to the ethereal and enigmatic quality of the piece. Her music often defies conventional genre classifications, blending elements of electronic, pop, classical, and avant-garde styles to create a sound that is distinctly her own. 'Pagan Poetry' is no exception, with its haunting melodies and intricate soundscapes that mirror the song's lyrical themes of complexity and contradiction.