People often feel stuck in limbo, waiting for new beginnings to start in their lives. The duet “Wildflower and Barley” by Hozier and Allison Russell depicts a picture of feeling stuck through its lyrics, along with natural elements and references to Dante’s “Inferno” to display a renewal of life and new beginnings.
The song was written during the pandemic and is connected to solitude during this time.
With the context of the pandemic occurrence during the time this song was written, the lyrics “wildflower and barley” gain a specific meaning. These two words are not only the song’s title, but are repeated throughout the lyrics.
Wildflowers are a symbol of unity, and barley symbolizes the concept of redemption and transformation. These symbols tie into the song’s theme of new beginnings, as beginnings require changes in our lives and a sense of togetherness during a time like the pandemic.
The lyrics of this song are repetitive with nature imagery, allowing listeners to slip into their imagination picturing water, soil, the brink of summer, and springtime.
Spring is a known symbol for starting over. Dirt and soil reference the earth’s ability to flourish during difficult times and support renewal. The theme of new horizons is captured within the melody of this song and is solidified by Hozier and Russell’s vocals.
Released in August of 2023, Hozier’s most recent album “Unreal Unearth” tells a story with each song representing a different ring of hell in Dante’s “Inferno.” By the end of the album, the journey ends with making it to the other side.
“Wildflower and Barley” is a part of an EP that was released seven months after this album, and it is connected to the first ring of hell due to its theme of limbo. This song did not make the cut for the original album tracklist.
Hozier is an Irish singer and songwriter known for themes of love, relationships, and politics with imagery drawn from nature and religion in his music. Hozier is categorized into indie rock, soul, and blues with elements from R&B, folk, and gospel genres. His most popular songs are “Too Sweet” and “Take Me to Church.”
With over 50 million monthly listeners on Spotify, Hozier can be found on all streaming platforms.