Violin

Kate Bush's song 'Violin' is a vibrant and evocative tribute to the power and allure of the violin. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the instrument's ability to transport the listener beyond the confines of the orchestra, into a realm of pure emotion and energy. The opening lines, 'Four strings across the bridge, Ready to carry me over,' suggest a journey or transformation, with the violin acting as the vessel. The repeated references to 'shivers' and 'quivers' emphasize the physical and emotional impact of the music, highlighting the visceral response it can evoke.

The chorus, with its insistent command to 'Get the bow going! Let it scream to me: Violin! Violin! Violin!' captures the urgency and intensity of the music. The use of the word 'scream' suggests a raw, almost primal energy, as if the violin is not just an instrument, but a living, breathing entity with a voice of its own. This personification of the violin underscores its central role in the song, as both a source of beauty and a force of nature.

The references to historical and mythical figures like Paganini, Nero, and the Banshees add a layer of mystique and drama to the song. Paganini, known for his virtuosity and rumored pact with the devil, represents the pinnacle of musical mastery and the darker, more mysterious side of the violin. The mention of 'whacking that devil into my fiddlestick' suggests a desire to harness this power and channel it through the music. The playful, almost whimsical lines about 'jigging along with the fiddle' add a touch of lightness and joy, balancing the intensity of the rest of the song.

Overall, 'Violin' is a celebration of the instrument's ability to evoke a wide range of emotions, from shivers and quivers to joy and exhilaration. Kate Bush's passionate and dynamic performance brings the lyrics to life, making the listener feel as if they are right there with her, caught up in the magic of the music.