The Leopard
Wild Whispers: Unveiling the Animalistic Poetry in Robyn Hitchcock's 'The Leopard'
Lyrics
She walks like a leopard
Describing a woman's movement resembling that of a leopard, emphasizing a graceful and stealthy walk.
Her feet padding down down down
Highlighting the quiet footsteps of the woman as she moves, possibly suggesting a sense of mystery or secrecy.
With spots on her shadow
Referring to shadows with spots, indicating a play of light and darkness, perhaps symbolizing complexity or duality.
That sway as the sun goes round
Suggesting that the spotted shadows move with the woman, influenced by the motion of the sun.
He lies in the orchard
Introducing a male character lying in an orchard, creating a contrasting scene to the woman's movements.
And gazes into the sun
Depicting the man staring directly at the sun, possibly indicating a willingness to face challenges or endure difficulties.
His body is burning
Describing the man's body as burning, implying intense emotions or passion, but not directed towards just anyone.
But not for just anyone
Suggesting that the man's burning sensations are reserved for someone specific, adding a layer of exclusivity or devotion.
One more animal
Introducing the theme of animals, possibly representing primal instincts or untamed aspects of human nature.
One more fox will slip away
Implies the escape or elusiveness of a fox, symbolizing missed opportunities or the difficulty of capturing desires.
You're an animal
Labeling someone as an animal, drawing a parallel between human behavior and the instincts of animals.
Like your father in his day
Comparing the person to their father in his prime, suggesting a hereditary or learned aspect of the animalistic nature.
I watch through the winter
Observing and enduring through a challenging period, possibly the emotional 'winter' in one's life.
I watch and I go insane
Expressing a sense of going insane or losing control while witnessing difficult circumstances.
I see the formations
Noticing patterns or formations, possibly in life or relationships, but hesitant to face them again.
But don't make me look again
Resisting the urge to revisit or confront difficult realities, possibly due to the emotional toll it may take.
One more animal
Reintroducing the theme of animals, emphasizing another creature that manages to escape or evade capture.
No one thought would get away
Highlighting the unexpected escape of an animal, challenging initial expectations or assumptions.
Hear the orchestra
Referring to an orchestra, possibly symbolizing the interconnected and harmonious aspects of the leopard and her prey.
Of the leopard and her prey
Depicting the dynamic relationship between the leopard and her prey, suggesting a balance or interplay between predator and victim.
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