Hinnom
Bon Iver Lyrics

The lyrics of Bon Iver's song "Hinnom" convey a sense of falling and being lost. The repeated phrase "fall in, fall out, fall along" suggests a constant state of motion, without clear direction. In the first verse, the reference to "Noachide" - a term used in Jewish law to describe the seven laws given to Noah after the flood - adds to the sense of disorientation. The bodies wrapped in white could be seen as symbolic of death or purity, but it's unclear if they are real or metaphorical. The line "baby, pasts are slain" suggests a desire to move past mistakes or regrets but the reference to "La Grange" - which could be modern-day Texas or a town in France - is open to interpretation.

In the chorus ("In Hinnom"), there seems to be a plea for understanding or forgiveness. The line "all this time with your heart in mind, didn't you edit" could suggest that the singer has been aware of their faults but still failed to improve themselves. The lines "go, the least and the precious feast, the in-vetted" could be interpreted in different ways, perhaps referring to a desire for humility and simplicity or to a sense of being excluded from certain social circles.

The second verse introduces more vivid imagery of sand and dirt mixing with humans, as well as the idea of "solar peace" - an oxymoron that further emphasizes the sense of confusion. The lines "strangers scattering, nether passage in the wind, off pennant tension ring" are difficult to interpret, but could hint at attempts to connect with others or to find meaning in mundane objects like a pennant. The final line "not to vet it" could mean "not to scrutinize or overthink it" - a possible message to the listener to let go of the need for certainty and control.

Overall, "Hinnom" seems to be a meditation on the uncertainty and impermanence of life, as well as the struggle to find meaning and purpose amidst chaos.