Horses in My Dreams by PJ Harvey Lyrics Meaning – Unraveling the Symbols Behind the Melody
Lyrics
Like waves, like the sea
They pull out of here
They pull, they are free
Rode a horse round the world
Along the tracks of a train
Broke the record, found the gold
Set myself free again
I have pulled myself clear
I have pulled myself clear
Silent, I have pulled myself clear
Silent, I have pulled myself clear
Horses in my dreams
Like waves, like the sea
On the tracks of a train
Set myself free again
I have pulled myself clear
Silent, I have pulled myself clear
Silent, I have pulled myself clear
Silent, I have pulled myself clear
PJ Harvey has always been synonymous with deeply textured songwriting rife with poignant symbolism. ‘Horses in My Dreams’ from her album ‘Stories from the City, Stories from the Sea’ is a mesmerizing track that resonates with an enigmatic blend of freedom and introspection. This article embarks on a lyrical journey through the song, deciphering the complex layers wrapped within its haunting verses.
At first glance, the song’s title may hint at equestrian themes, but a deep dive into Harvey’s ethereal lyrics reveals a profound exploration of liberation, personal growth, and an unshackling of the soul. The track is a testament to Harvey’s ability to weave abstract concepts into a tangible emotional tapestry that tugs at the strings of the listener’s psyche.
A Gallop Through Personal Emancipation
The recurring image of ‘Horses in my dreams’ serves as a metaphor for a natural, untamed force within the self. It reflects a yearning for unfettered existence that transcends the limitations imposed by external forces. Harvey’s voice carries with it the serene power of these majestic animals, suggesting a sort of serene yet powerful movement towards something greater.
The imagery of riding a horse ’round the world’ and along ‘the tracks of a train’ implies a journey not just through physical landscapes but through the fields of one’s own life. The process of ‘breaking the record, finding the gold’ can be interpreted as overcoming personal challenges and achieving a sense of accomplishment that is deeply personal and introspective in nature.
The Symbolism of Sea-like Horses – Diving into the Depths
Comparing horses to waves and the sea, Harvey intertwines the notion of freedom with fluidity and the profound depths of the ocean. This metaphor could reflect our subconscious and the internal tides that govern our thoughts and actions. The sea, often linked to the concept of the subconscious in literary works, parallels the horses in representing the boundless spirit.
This lyric positions the horses – these symbols of the inner journey – as elemental and unstoppable. Waves don’t just move; they erode, reshape, and reform. Similarly, the journey Harvey sings about reshapes the self. This wider symbology of natural elements indicates a profound transformation within.
The Cathartic Release of ‘I have pulled myself clear’
The motif of self-liberation in ‘Horses in My Dreams’ is encapsulated in the line ‘I have pulled myself clear’. The repetition of this line underscores its significance as an anthem of emancipation. This self-affirmation speaks to the process of extracting oneself from past burdens, toxic relationships, or self-imposed constraints.
The addition of the word ‘silent’ reinforces a sense of peaceful triumph. Harvey’s assertion isn’t boisterous or bombastic but reflects a quiet, resolute strength. The silence suggests that this act of pulling oneself free is not just an outward showing but a deeply personal realization and internal achievement.
The Hidden Meaning – Silence and Sound as Vessels of Self-Discovery
Through ‘Horses in My Dreams’, PJ Harvey invites listeners into a silent conversation with their innermost selves. The song’s structure and the lyrical emphasis on silence can be viewed as an invitation to introspection. It is as though Harvey understands the loudest revelations are often unspoken and that silent reflection can yield a greater understanding.
This dichotomy between silence and sound, between the tumult of a galloping horse and the serenity of personal achievement, creates a potent dynamic. It suggests that true freedom—which is what the song ultimately seems to pursue—comes from reconciling our innermost voice with the noise of the world around us.
Memorable Lines That Echo in the Soul
‘Like waves, like the sea / On the tracks of a train / Set myself free again’ stands out as one of the song’s most memorable and impacting moments. The line encapsulates the essence of ‘Horses in My Dreams’, painting a portrait of an existence continually in motion, unbound, and eternally seeking the horizon.
This evocative imagery, paired with Harvey’s emotive delivery, embeds deeply within listeners, reminding them of their private struggles for freedom and peace. The mention of ‘again’ suggests this is not a one-time battle but part of an ongoing cycle of growth and self-renewal. It’s a line that resonates long after the song concludes, echoing the natural ebb and flow of personal evolution.
