Skellig
David Gray Lyrics

The lyrics of David Gray's "Skellig" talk about the power of music and words to bridge gaps and connect people. The song begins with a longing for the singer's song to be like an ocean, reaching across to touch lives on the other side. It expresses the universal desire for communication and understanding, emphasizing that words have the potential to bring people closer together.

The second paragraph uses the metaphor of hearts as burning vessels navigating through a dark and treacherous ocean. It describes how, amidst the challenges of life, humans often seek love and companionship, metaphorically craving the "flesh of love." This line conveys the insatiable hunger for connection and affection that resides within each individual.

The third paragraph delves into the power of lies and the challenge of truth. It portrays lies as a dance, nimble and elusive, capable of spreading far and wide before the truth can even catch up. This highlights the difficulty of dispelling falsehoods that may have already taken root in people's minds. The reference to truth putting on its trousers conveys the idea that truth often takes longer to reveal itself, while lies can spread rapidly.

Moving on, the fourth paragraph describes an introspective moment experienced by the singer in a nightclub mirror. This image captures a fleeting glimpse of the singer's pre-human spirit, frozen like a deer caught in headlights. This suggests a moment of self-reflection and self-awareness, a realization that one's essence goes beyond the physical and temporary aspect of being human.

The fifth paragraph explores the concept of detachment from earthly concerns and the dismantling of illusions. It suggests that when we reach a point where nothing matters anymore and we let go of cares and worries, we start to observe the chaos and destruction that illusions bring. This could refer to the recognition of the harm caused by living in a world built on falsehoods and illusions.

The sixth paragraph changes direction and shifts to a more personal narrative. It describes a taste like metal, representing the harshness and bitterness of life's experiences. The fog of war symbolizes the confusion and turmoil that often surround us. The hurts are compared to nettles, a prickly plant that grows uncontrollably. This line illustrates the abundance of pain and suffering encountered throughout life.

The final paragraph depicts a determined act of self-reliance and resilience. It speaks of the singer cutting a stairway with their own hands, ascending to a high rocky plateau. This action symbolizes the individual's ability to overcome obstacles and create a dwelling within the tumultuous winds of life. The repetition of "inside the winds" reinforces the idea of finding solace and comfort within chaos and uncertainty.

Overall, the lyrics of "Skellig" delve into themes of communication, the power of words, the challenges of truth, self-reflection, detachment from illusion, perseverance, and finding inner strength. The song encourages the listener to contemplate the deeper meanings behind human experiences and the complexities of existence.