De Selby, Pt. 1

Hozier's 'De Selby, Pt. 1' is a hauntingly introspective song that delves into the themes of self-reflection and the human condition. The lyrics paint a picture of solitude and contemplation, where the world is asleep, and the individual is left alone with their thoughts. The 'blackness of air' and 'darkness so deep' suggest a profound exploration of one's inner self, a place where even God, at the beginning of time, might have hesitated to tread. This darkness could symbolize the unknown aspects of the self or the unconscious mind.

The song continues to describe a state of being 'unseen' and the 'bliss of not knowin' yourself,' which could imply a sense of liberation from self-consciousness or the burdens of identity. However, the mind resists this void, filling it with thoughts or fantasies, perhaps as a way to cope with the emptiness. The reference to God and the questioning of divine motives adds a layer of existential inquiry, pondering the nature of existence and the reasons behind life's mysteries.

The chorus, sung in Irish, adds to the mystical and ethereal quality of the song. The repeated lines 'Bhfuilis soranna sorcha' translate to 'Are there bright barns,' followed by 'Ach tagais ‘nós na hoíche,' meaning 'But you come like the night.' This contrast between light and darkness, and the transformation 'claochlú' that occurs, further emphasizes the theme of change and the cyclical nature of day and night, light and darkness, and perhaps the ever-changing self. Hozier's use of language and metaphor creates a rich tapestry of meaning, inviting listeners to reflect on their own inner worlds and the universal human experience of searching for understanding in the shadows of the mind.