Elverum explained this change in an 2003 interview with Discorder, asserting that "Mount Eerie is a new project. The Microphones was completed, or at least at a good stopping point. I did it because I am ready for new things. I am new."
As Mount Eerie, Phil typically works with synthesizers, guitars, drums, and the accenting voices of Mirah, The Blow, and fellow K-Records/Anacortes, Washington friends. Mount Eerie's album "Seven New Songs of Mount Eerie" was also the first recording released on Phil's new label, P.W.Elverum & Sun. All songs from that recording are available for free download in the Internet Archive.
The Place Lives
Mount Eerie Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
I see the place lives
I've stayed here long enough
Moss has started to grow
But still, wind sweeping clear
The brief collection assembled
The silt I clutch
Looking east in the spring
White permanent
Snow
Shines
In Mount Eerie's song "The Place Lives," the lyrics paint a vivid picture of observing the ever-changing environment and the lasting presence of a particular place. The opening lines, "Watching the light change, I see the place lives," suggest the singer's deep connection and familiarity with their surroundings. They have spent a significant amount of time in this place, long enough to witness the growth of moss, a symbol of nature's resilience. Despite the passage of time, the wind still sweeps clear, signifying a sense of constant motion and renewal.
The mention of a "brief collection assembled" and "the silt I clutch" suggests the gathering of memories and experiences that the singer holds onto. As they look to the east in spring, the image of "ashes and fog" evokes a sense of uncertainty and perhaps nostalgia. However, the line "white permanent snow shines" brings a contrasting element of purity and permanence. It serves as a reminder that while things may change, there are certain aspects of a place that endure.
Overall, "The Place Lives" explores themes of transience and resilience, capturing the essence of a familiar environment that continues to exist and evolve alongside the observer.
Line by Line Meaning
Watching the light change
Observing the shifting of illumination
I see the place lives
I perceive the vibrancy and vitality of this location
I've stayed here long enough
I've been present in this space for an extended period
Moss has started to grow
Vegetation of moss has begun to develop
But still, wind sweeping clear
Nevertheless, the breeze repeatedly sweeps away any obstructions
The brief collection assembled
The temporary gathering of objects organized together
The silt I clutch
I hold onto the sediment particles with determination
Looking east in the spring
Gazing towards the eastern direction during the season of rejuvenation
Through ashes and fog
Navigating the remnants of burnt material and mist
White permanent
Unchanging and enduring whiteness
Snow
Frozen precipitation in the form of delicate crystals
Shines
Radiates brilliance and light
Lyrics © SC PUBLISHING DBA SECRETLY CANADIAN PUB.
Written by: Phillip Whitman Elvrum
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Wanda Phelps
I was raised in the shadow of Mt Erie, raised my kids on the far end of Heart lake place under the mountain (I think where the for sale sign is at the beginning of the video). Now am in Idaho, heard today about your band on Radio Boise. This video captures my heart Thank you.
Night Cruising
This video is perfect for what Phil's lyrics has been all about the last 5 years.
Philippe Turgeon
You can't hate this man...there's just no way.
Nicolás Jofré
phil is an amazing artist but he needs to improve his ability to dig
hi hello
I love u
Floydthefuckbag
I love Phil Elverum!
リア
phil is so cool (philosophical)
Taj Midger
Philisofucool.
oli's misc clips
more like phil is so f*** cool
Pavor Nocturnus1
Clever