Drawn To The Blood

Sufjan Stevens' song 'Drawn To The Blood' is a haunting exploration of love, betrayal, and the search for divine justice. The lyrics are steeped in biblical references and vivid imagery, creating a tapestry of emotional and spiritual turmoil. The repeated question 'How? How did this happen?' underscores a sense of bewilderment and anguish, as the narrator grapples with an unexpected and painful betrayal by a lover. The imagery of a 'one-winged dove' and 'head of a rabbit' evokes a sense of vulnerability and helplessness, suggesting that the narrator feels broken and incomplete without their lover's support.

The song's chorus, 'For my prayer has always been love / What did I do to deserve this?' reveals the narrator's deep sense of injustice and confusion. Despite their devotion and love, they are left with 'blood on my sleeve,' a metaphor for the emotional wounds inflicted by the betrayal. The invocation of Delilah and the 'God of Elijah' adds a layer of biblical gravitas, suggesting that the narrator is seeking divine retribution or understanding for their suffering. Delilah, known for betraying Samson, and Elijah, a prophet who called down fire from heaven, symbolize the extremes of human treachery and divine intervention.

The final verse, 'As fire to the sun / Tell me what I have done,' continues the theme of seeking answers and justice. The 'heart of a dragon' symbolizes strength and resilience, yet the narrator remains in a state of despair, questioning their own actions and the fairness of their plight. The song's repetitive structure and poignant lyrics create a powerful emotional resonance, capturing the universal experience of feeling wronged and seeking solace in faith and love.