The song "Tendons" by The Joy Formidable explores themes of love, vulnerability, and the fragility of relationships. The lyrics depict a cautionary tale about the challenges and complexities of love and the consequences that come with it. In the first verse, the lyrics warn about being cautious of the morning and night, highlighting the uncertainty and potential pitfalls that can arise in relationships. The mention of preachers, drunkards, and clinging onto each other suggests a sense of desperation and seeking solace in each other when there is no one else around. The chorus emphasizes the strained nature of the relationship, describing it as tendons stretched too far. The imagery of being tangled up and heavy conveys a sense of being overwhelmed and burdened by the intensity of the connection. The lyrics also mention being fractions of a star held above a story, implying that their love is temporary and fleeting. The lyrics touch upon indecision and uncertainty in the following lines, expressing confusion about what needs to be built, dug, or filled in. This suggests a lack of clarity and direction in the relationship. The second verse compares their love to a swarm, emphasizing its overpowering and all-consuming nature. They acknowledge their inability to see through it or hold onto thorns, implying that their love is intense but also potentially painful. The bridge delves into the notion of impermanence and the realization that nothing that's close or intensely felt can last forever. The lyrics mention the past circling and the inability for something that's lit to be in flames for an extended period. This highlights the transitory nature of relationships and the inevitability of change. The final lines of the song express a plea to pour grief and emotions into each other, perhaps suggesting a desire to be fully present and connected. The repetition of the phrase "Is this what you wanted" reflects a sense of uncertainty and questioning about the choices made and the consequences that follow. Overall, "Tendons" explores the complexities and challenges of love, highlighting the ups and downs, uncertainties, and impermanence that often accompany intense connections.
