Song meaning of Smashed Birds by Sóley

The lyrics of "Smashed Birds" by Sóley convey a sense of liberation, transformation, and reclaiming of personal power. The song tells a story of a journey taken by the narrator, who confronts their own mortality and reflects on their past. The first verse introduces the theme of letting go of the past by taking notes, metaphorically representing memories, and putting them in a pocket with "your birds," symbolizing a freedom from burdens or attachments.

In the second verse, the narrator approaches a house that is "floating on [their] water," suggesting a connection to their own emotions. They seek refuge in nature, asking a tree to take them in, signifying a desire to reconnect with their inner self. The chorus reveals the act of smashing the birds, representing breaking free from limitations or expectations, and removing the feathers to make a beautiful dress, symbolizing the transformation and empowerment that comes from shedding old identities.

The third verse introduces a letter from a married past, which the narrator symbolically consumes, internalizing "your words" and reclaiming their own voice. In the bridge, the narrator expresses their new-found freedom amidst nature, instructing the trees and bees to fly away, reinforcing their desire to let go of the past.

The final chorus demonstrates the repetition of consuming "your words" by the fire as a way to distill the essence of the past and use it as fuel for personal growth. The reference to dancing with the smashed birds represents embracing the freedom and unleashing the suppressed joy. Finally, in the morning, the narrator climbs a tree and flies away, suggesting a complete liberation from the constraints of the past.

Overall, "Smashed Birds" explores the themes of breaking free, transformation, and self-empowerment. It encourages listeners to confront their past, let go of burdens, and embrace their own individuality, ultimately finding their own wings to fly.