The Concubine
Beirut/Realpeople Lyrics

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I've been told
Ties
One child away
For Rome to spare
I can wait child
And write songs
By
Long beheaded

I am grateful
For
Roaming
And so I long for your econ
Either side
Era I
Rest tonight

Oh ho ho

Now
Autumn falls down
And I can hear the sound
Autumn falls down
Autumn goes down
And I till the ground

All I can ?

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of Beirut/Realpeople's song "The Concubine" are open to interpretation, but seem to describe a person who has been through difficult times and is now awaiting a future that is uncertain. The opening lines suggest that the singer has been given some kind of ultimatum or deadline, and is willing to wait and work on creative projects until that deadline passes. The reference to "long beheaded" suggests a history of violence or trauma, and the gratefulness for roaming may indicate a desire for escape or anonymity. The singer longs for their "econ," which could mean economic stability or an abbreviation of the word "economy," which could represent a larger system that they wish to be a part of or understand. The final lines about autumn falling down and "tilling the ground" could be a metaphor for starting anew, preparing for change, or making the best of the present while waiting for something else.

Line by Line Meaning

I've been told
Someone has informed me

Ties
Connections or relationships

One child away
Being separated from a child or loved one

For Rome to spare
In order for Rome to show mercy or leniency

I can wait child
I am willing to be patient, my child

And write songs
To express my thoughts and emotions through music

By
Alongside or beside

Long beheaded
Those who have had their heads removed for an extended period of time

I am grateful
I feel appreciation or thankfulness

For
Because of or due to

Roaming
Traveling or wandering without a fixed destination