Strangers
Ed Harcourt Lyrics

Ed Harcourt's "Strangers" is a beautifully written and deeply poetic song that uses vivid and metaphorical language to explore the themes of love, perseverance, and the power of human connection. The opening verse, "Deliciously, I drink up all your tears, on a piano out of tune I sit and persevere," describes someone who is deeply immersed in and devoted to their loved one, even when things are difficult or out of tune. The next verse continues this theme, as the singer states that they "deliriously" consume their partner's words and then twist and turn them until they become "absurd." The lyrics suggest that the singer is willing to endure and work through the challenges of their relationship in order to maintain their connection and love.

The chorus explores the idea that this love is powerful enough to overcome external pressures and societal expectations. The line "remember how it was, they said it wouldn't last, you proved them wrong, took on everyone" celebrates the strength and resilience of this couple's bond, which has endured despite the skepticism of those around them. The second verse, "ferociously, we fumble in the dark, two lovers acting like strangers, society won't cage" further underscores the idea that this love is all-encompassing and potentially transformative.

The final verse is perhaps the most poignant, as it describes the beauty and mystery of love even when it doesn't conform to our expectations. The "clock that can't keep time" and the "poem that can't ever rhyme" suggest the possibility of love that transcends conventional boundaries and definitions. The repeated phrase "mao mao mao" adds an eerie and haunting quality to the song, reinforcing its mystical and poetic feel.