The song Bend Your Knees by James Vincent McMorrow is a reflection on life, love, and the pursuit of happiness. The lyrics are poetic and abstract, with a focus on imagery and emotion. The song begins with the question, "What is it that I want?" and continues with a sense of longing and uncertainty. The narrator remembers meeting someone on August 5th, and imagines a future where they are together in the year 2064. The line "Bend your knees in the forest" suggests a sense of reverence for nature and the natural world. The idea of crawling inside could represent a deeper exploration of one's own psyche and emotions. The narrator admits to feeling flawed, and implies that the other person believed in them despite their imperfections. They suggest that desperation is the only thing that can stop their longing and unfulfilled desires. The mention of fragrant lemon groves could represent a desire for something simple and pure, a return to a more idyllic time. The song continues with abstract imagery and allusions to past experiences, including fixing up houses and driving cars in Egypt. The line "Love it best when it's weakest" suggests a preference for vulnerability and authenticity. The narrator reflects on the passing of time, with every autumn feeling a little shorter and every moment providing a name or identity. The final lines of the song, "Not reaching up, it's stapled on my back" suggest a sense of resignation or acceptance, a recognition that some things are beyond our control. The song is ultimately a meditation on the complexities of life and the desire for meaning and connection.
