Ben Howard’s “Burgh Island” Lyrics Meaning
Burgh Island is an actual location in England, Ben Howard’s home country. And it is a place which based on this song we can deduce imbues him with feelings of satisfaction and peace of mind.
More to the point is that he is seemingly likening his affection for Burgh Island to a particular romantic interest, i.e. ‘the best woman he’s ever known’. So fundamentally, his side of the lyrics appear primarily to feature metaphors which draw parallels between the ways he perceives this woman and his aforementioned feelings for the titular island.
Monica Heldal steps in
Meanwhile it would appear that Monica Heldal (Howard’s co-narrator) is portraying said romantic interest. And the sentiment that she is expressing is a bit more-challenging to decipher. But on a surface level, she seems to be voicing concern over her partner’s true level of commitment.
Perhaps the reason she is compelled to do so is because before she directly enters the song, Howard insinuates that one day he may leave her. So whereas the romance featured is clearly one he derives considerable benefits from, there is still a prevailing sense that said association may prove to be fleeting.
Facts about “Burgh Island”
This song came out on 30 September 2011 via Island Records. And it is featured on Howard’s “The Burgh Island EP”. This EP also features the following hits:
The writer of “Burgh Island” is Howard himself. And the tune was produced by Chris Bond.
This tune is the first instance of Howard teaming up on a song with Norwegian singer Monica Heldal.
What genre of music is “Burgh Island”?
The song best fits into the folk or indie folk genre.
