The song "Gentlest Hammer" by Mason Jennings portrays a passionate and intense longing for someone. The lyrics depict the speaker's desire for this person, comparing their taste to wine and battle smoke. This person is described as blue like oxygen, coming in and out again, suggesting a sense of instability or unpredictability. The repeated line "I am the gentlest hammer" represents the speaker's determination to break through to this person, to get closer to them and understand them on a deeper level. They want to be with this person and are willing to be persistent in their pursuit, likening themselves to a gentle force that will eventually make its way into the person's heart. The verses also mention the person's captivating qualities, describing how they polish stones with their eyes and set kites free. Despite the ships that have sunk in their past, the speaker sees themselves as the one worth saving. They feel a strong connection and their hand is drawing faster, indicating a sense of urgency. The speaker views this person as their sanctuary ("garden green") and expresses a willingness to stand by them until their pain is eased. They want to see this person break and reveal their true self. The repetition of "gotta get into you" reiterates their yearning to be intimately connected with this person. Overall, "Gentlest Hammer" is a song about longing, desire, and the determination to break through to someone and establish a deep emotional connection.
