Ramalama
Róisín Murphy Lyrics

Be, be, be, be
The repetition of 'be' emphasizes the importance of being present and in the moment.

Bang Bang
The repeated 'bang bang' may symbolize the sound of the beating of the heart or the rhythm of life.

Could a body close the mind down
Asking whether one can suppress their thoughts and emotions by focusing on their physical being.

Stitch a seam across the eye
Questioning whether we can blind ourselves to the truth by sewing our eyes shut.

If you can be good you'll live forever
Suggesting that by leading a virtuous life, one may be remembered and leave a lasting legacy beyond death.

If you're bad, you'll die when you die
Implying that living a sinful life will only lead to a meaningless and unfulfilling end.

Hearing only one true note
Focusing on the purity and authenticity of a single sound or feeling.

I'm the one and only sound
Emphasizing the uniqueness of the self and the importance of individuality.

Unzip my body, take my heart out
Metaphorically asking to open oneself up and expose their innermost feelings.

Cause I need a beat to give this tune
Acknowledging the necessity of rhythm and movement to express oneself fully.

Oh the body swayed to music
Describing the physical reaction to music, suggesting that it is a fundamental part of human nature.

Oh the lightning glance
Referring to a momentary look or instant attraction that can change one's perspective or spark inspiration.

I would give it all, and all
Expressing a willingness to offer everything one has, without holding back.

Maybe you would give me less, for half a chance
Acknowledging that not everyone is willing to give their all or take a risk in a relationship or creative collaboration.

Planted firmly in the ground
Suggesting stability and rootedness in one's beliefs or identity.

Undo my heart, unzip my body
Requesting emotional and physical vulnerability in order to truly experience and express oneself.

Lend to my ear a clear and a deafening sound
Asking for a powerful and resonant experience that can inspire and motivate.

Everybody smile, please
A command to put on a happy face for the camera, perhaps hiding true emotions.

Nobody pay no mind to me
A contradictory statement that demonstrates the desire for both attention and privacy.

Taking a picture of you
Documenting someone else's image or personality.

Taking a picture of me
Reflecting on one's own identity and self-presentation.

Ramalama, bang bang
An onomatopoeic phrase that emphasizes rhythm and energy.

With a hammer bang bang
Adding to the percussive quality of the lyrics.

Press gang, bing bong
Suggesting images of manufacturing or repetitive work, and creating further alliteration.

Hum hum ho Hum Hum
A nonsensical utterance that contributes to the rhythm and sound of the song.

Keep on, keep on
A statement of perseverance and motivation to continue pressing forward.

And if I need a rhythm
Acknowledging the importance of finding a sense of order and structure in life.

It'll be to my heart I listen
Suggesting that one's own inner spirit or intuition should guide their actions and choices.