To The Birds
Suede Lyrics


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"What are you doing?"
"Burying"
"For what? For what, daddy?"
"You know what"
"The dead birds? You buried it over there"




Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Suede's song To The Birds contain a spoken word interlude that is both haunting and thought-provoking. The lines are delivered in a somber tone and are layered with symbolism and metaphor, making their meaning open to interpretation. The conversation between a father and a child revolves around burying something, which is later revealed to be dead birds.


The dialogue suggests that the act of burying the birds is a ritual that is repeated throughout time, perhaps representing the cycle of life and death. It is also possible that the birds could be a metaphor for innocence and purity, which have been lost or destroyed. The child's repeated questioning and the father's vague responses add to the sense of mystery and ambiguity, leaving the listener to ponder the significance of the scene.


Throughout the song, To The Birds, there are other references to death and rebirth, as well as the idea of escaping to a better place. The lyrics also contain themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. Overall, the song creates a haunting and surreal atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression on the listener.



Line by Line Meaning

What are you doing?
Asking about the task at hand.


Burying
Putting something in the ground.


For what? For what, daddy?
Inquiring about the purpose of the task and seeking confirmation of the identity of the person performing it.


You know what
Implying that the purpose is already understood and does not need to be vocalized.


The dead birds? You buried it over there
Recalling a previous occasion where something similar was done and confirming that it has been completed in a specific location.




Lyrics © BMG Rights Management
Written by: Brett Anderson, Neil Codling

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

@vermilliongecko

Happy memories of seeing Suede for the first time at Reading Festival 1992. They weren't on the main stage, they were in the marquee, and it was PACKED. I'm not sure who the headliners were on the main stage, no-one cared. The inside of that marquee was the closest I have ever seen to Beatles style fan hysteria, and it was hard not to get crushed. I remember sitting on a complete stranger's shoulders for this song, which was the last one (don't worry, he agreed). That was 22 years ago and I still remember the buzz, it was like being in love for the first time.

@alexandergroschup8922

+The Real Vermillion 303 Nirvana, Wonderstuff, Public Enemy. lucky besteward you that you saw them there! :-)

@vermilliongecko

Alexander Groschup It was a good year!

@italosouza2011

Everytime I heard To The Birds I think: oh my God! how was happy on 90's. Thanks Suede for being part of my life. #suedeglamforever

@hi_mymymy

This song gives me goosebumps! Its too magical!

@pr2273

Amazing song! Brilliant band

@MrCoops5uk

Still sounds amazing,watch and learn youngsters.

@dorionwilde

There's something magical in this song.

@peterpeterxxo

an epic debut single..this and the a-side the drowners..i got the single the day it came out, may 11th..after 'the best new band in britain' mm interview on apr 23rd.

@speakertreatz

me too. it's amazing how much sway those two weekly magazines had over the minds of us young music fans. i was already convinced they were The Best New Band In Britain before I'd heard a note of music

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