The painting on the album cover is Netherlandish Proverbs by Pieter Bruegel the Elder (1525-1569). This humorous portrait of peasant life depicts around 100 literal renditions of Flemish proverbs of the day. Robin Pecknold explained to Q Magazine in August 2008 why they chose this particular piece of art for the album cover:
"I like it because it's very bucolic and pretty at first glance, but there's all this weird stuff going on-fires, people defecating coins, guys shearing pigs, dogs playing cards with chickens. It gets more disturbing the more you look at it- a pretty good analogy for our music."
Quiet Houses
Fleet Foxes Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Don't give in [Repeat x8]
Come to me [Repeat x4]
Lay me down [Repeat x8]
The repetitive and simple lyrics of Quiet Houses by Fleet Foxes convey a strong message of surrendering and letting go. The first line "Lay me down" is repeated four times, perhaps signaling the desire for rest, stillness, or even death. However, the following line "Don't give in" is repeated eight times, hinting at the possibility of resistance, resilience, or the importance of not succumbing to despair. It is almost as if the song is addressing a person who is going through a difficult time, urging them to persevere, while also acknowledging their pain and exhaustion.
The second stanza is more hopeful, as the lyric "Come to me" is repeated four times, suggesting that there is someone, or someplace, that can provide solace and comfort. This "someone" could be a friend, a lover, a spiritual figure, or even nature itself. The song ends with a repetition of the first line, "Lay me down," this time eight times, which could be interpreted as the person finally giving in and finding peace, or alternatively, as a plea for mercy and protection.
Overall, Quiet Houses is a hauntingly beautiful song that deals with themes of mortality, perseverance, and hope. It encourages the listener to embrace their vulnerability and seek refuge in others, while also reminding them of the importance of resilience and courage.
Line by Line Meaning
Lay me down
Asking to lay down and let go of the burdens and stresses of life.
Don't give in
Encouragement to keep fighting and not give up despite life's difficulties.
Come to me
Asking for support and comfort from loved ones during tough times.
Lay me down
Repeating the desire to let go and find peace.
Lyrics © Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.
Written by: ROBIN PECKNOLD
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind