[New Wave] Polly

Nirvana's '[New Wave] Polly' is a haunting and unsettling song that delves into the dark themes of abduction and abuse. Written by Kurt Cobain, the song is based on a real-life incident where a young girl named Polly was kidnapped and tortured. The lyrics are narrated from the perspective of the abductor, which adds a chilling layer to the song. Cobain's choice to use a calm, almost detached tone in the lyrics contrasts sharply with the horrific subject matter, making the song even more disturbing.

The repeated lines like 'Polly wants a cracker' and 'Maybe she wants some water' are eerily reminiscent of a captor's attempts to placate their victim with basic needs, highlighting the power dynamics at play. The phrases 'Let me take a ride, hurt yourself' and 'Want some help, please myself' further emphasize the abuser's control and manipulation. The use of everyday language to describe such a grim scenario serves to underscore the banality of evil, making the listener confront the uncomfortable reality that such atrocities can and do happen in ordinary settings.

Cobain's lyrics also touch on the victim's resilience and will to survive, as seen in lines like 'Amazes me the will of instinct.' This acknowledgment of the victim's strength amidst their suffering adds a layer of complexity to the song, making it not just a narrative of horror but also a testament to human endurance. The song's minimalist musical arrangement, featuring a simple acoustic guitar, allows the lyrics to take center stage, ensuring that the listener is fully immersed in the disturbing story being told.