Meaning of “U (Man Like)” by Bon Iver
Bon Iver likes to use a lot of metaphors in their lyrics. So this is but an attempt to decipher “U (Man Like)” based on the scant information available for this track just a few days after its release.
What is known is that “U (Man Like)” deals with the subjects of homelessness (i.e. poverty) and drug abuse. And the titular “man” appears to be the personification of those who hold power and wealth, particularly in American society, as in when the singer(s) address “man”, he is talking to one of the members of the elite. And apparently, what he is telling them is that they need to invest more energy and resources into the aforementioned issues.
So in summation, this track reads as if our narrator(s) is directing his message at politicians and the like, as in those who actually have the wherewithal, i.e. “long arms”, to effect change. And what he is telling them is to “improve”, as in step up as individual men and live up to their standing, in regards of helping those who are less-fortunate. And if not, he is basically threatening them with the imminent arrival of justice, thus insinuating their inability to rectify such situations is a punishable crime.
Facts about “U (Man Like)”
- Bon Iver premiered this song on 2 June 2019 at All Points East, a music festival held in London.
- “U (Man Like)” was officially released the following day (3 June 2019) and will be part of Bon Iver’s fourth full-length album. FYI, Bon Iver released this track on the same day they released another single titled “Hey, Ma“. Both songs come from the aforementioned album.
- This track includes backup vocals from the Brooklyn Youth Chorus and a few soloists, most notably Jenn Wasner, Elsa Jensen and Moses Sumney.
Writing and Production of “U (Man Like)”
The song was written by its lead singer, Justin Vernon along with the following:
- Naeem
- Chris Messina
- Bruce Hornsby
It’s vital to mention that the songwriter Bruce Hornsby mentioned above is the famous American singer whose famous hits include “The Way It Is” and “The Show Goes On”. On top of co-writing “U (Man Like)”, Hornsby also contributed vocals to it.
Regarding this song’s production, the following are credited as the song’s official producers:
- Bon Iver’s Vernon
- Chris Messina
- Brad Cook
I believe you may be using the term “heavy-handed” incorrectly in your first sentence.
When you look at the lyrics video, it’s pretty obvious that the witch hat covering someone’s body except the running legs represents a “witch hunt”. You know who/what this song is about.
IDK if they mean to call out a particular Man (cough cough Trump) but I would assume labeling the elite as “men” is not a good approach to analyzing this. Roll your eyes if you want. It’s 2019, language matters.
This song both music and lyrics are very powerful
my university ensemble is singing everywhere to enlighten folk.