Wolverine
Sufjan Stevens Lyrics


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Wolverine
Homecoming queen
Took the train
To Pickerel Lake

It's not your fault
It's not your fault
It's not your fault
It's not your fault

It's sold and bought
It's sold and bought
It's sold and bought
It's sold and bought

Take it in stride
Take it in stride
Take it in stride
Take it in stride

Take it in stride
Take it in stride
Take it in stride
Take it in stride

It's not your fault
It's not your fault
It's not your fault
It's not your fault

It's not your fault
It's not your fault




It's not your fault
It's not your fault

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of Sufjan Stevens's song Wolverine, although short, are complex and open to interpretation. The song begins with the lines "Wolverine, homecoming queen, took the train to Pickerel Lake." The image of a wolverine – an aggressive and solitary animal – combined with the label of ‘homecoming queen’ is intriguing, and may suggest a complex character or dual identity. The train journey to Pickerel Lake could represent a journey of self-discovery or a return to a place of significance.


The repetitive chorus of "It's not your fault" suggests an attempt to reassure or console someone. However, the continued repetition of "It's sold and bought, take it in stride" could suggest a harsh reality that cannot be changed. It could be interpreted as a comment on societal expectations and pressures that limit individual freedom and choice. The repetition of the phrases in the song enhances the sense of being trapped or confined within a cycle of events or ideas.


Overall, the lyrics of Wolverine are poetic and evoke feelings of melancholy and regret. The song invites the listener to reflect on their own experiences and the limitations imposed on their lives.


Line by Line Meaning

Wolverine
Referring to Michigan, which has been called the Wolverine State


Homecoming queen
A person who was once popular and successful in their hometown


Took the train
Leaving their hometown for a new destination


To Pickerel Lake
A specific location that the person is headed towards


It's not your fault
A reminder that the person is not to blame for the circumstances they find themselves in


It's sold and bought
The idea that everything is a transaction and can be bought and sold


Take it in stride
A suggestion to handle things calmly and without overreacting


It's not your fault
Reiteration that the person is not responsible for the situations they encounter




Contributed by Jacob E. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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Comments from YouTube:

@SesameCake

This song is like being stuck out in the ice-cold but with a little candle keeping your fingers toastily warm.

@unofficialsufjanstevens7829

Very apt description. I'll remember it always.

@opiesfuneral

Loving these beautiful vids of lesser known Sufjan gems.

@Elliotkelly00

truly beautiful song

@lynksdisease8795

New fave Suf song,
super sweet <3

@craigmurdock4740

The first time i heard this on the Michigan vinyl i was blown the F away

@bobrossantichrisst

that was me last night.

@andrewleitzke7376

I didn't realize Michigan had B-sides!!

@methenthusiast9148

Fr, one of those songs that I can remember exactly what I was doing when I first heard it

@TheSebOfAwesome

those bells.... in loveeeee

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