Marigold

Nirvana's 'Marigold' is a song that stands out for its simplicity and emotional depth. The lyrics are sparse and repetitive, which can often be a stylistic choice that emphasizes the song's underlying message. In this case, the repetition of 'He's there in case I want it all' and 'He's scared 'cause I want' suggests a tension between desire and fear, possibly within a relationship or an internal struggle. The 'he' in the song could be a person or a metaphor for an aspect of the self that is both protective and fearful of the speaker's ambitions or desires.

The imagery of 'six colour pictures all in a row of a marigold' adds a layer of symbolism to the song. Marigolds are often associated with the sun due to their bright orange color, and they can symbolize passion and creativity. However, they are also flowers used in Day of the Dead celebrations, symbolizing death and the impermanence of life. This duality could reflect the song's themes of longing and the fear of reaching out for what one wants, knowing that it may be fleeting.

The song's musical composition, with its slow clock-like rhythm, complements the lyrics by creating a sense of waiting or anticipation. This could be interpreted as the passage of time being slow when one is in a state of desire or uncertainty. The song's title, 'Marigold,' and the repeated visual motif in the lyrics, tie the song's themes together, suggesting a contemplation on the beauty and transience of life and the complex emotions that come with pursuing one's deepest desires.