Hollow Hills

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a picture of ancient earthworks, described as "fort and barrow," which conceal hidden dwellings. These places are presented as dangerous, particularly around Yuletide, with a strong warning against disturbing them. The dominant tone is one of dread and prohibition, suggesting that these "hollow hills" are not meant for mortal intrusion. The central tension arises from the inherent danger of these sacred, hidden spaces. The lyrics explicitly state that "invasion of their hollow hills" is "recommended not / For fear of death, in fear of rot." This suggests a powerful, almost supernatural force residing within, capable of inflicting severe consequences on those who trespass. The mention of "supermen's hills" further elevates the sense of an ancient, powerful, and perhaps otherworldly domain. The most striking element is the repeated, almost incantatory refrain of "Hollow hills." This repetition, coupled with the chorus's "So sad," creates a profound sense of melancholy and warning. The lyrics also introduce a cast of mythical beings – "Oberon," "witches," "goblins," and "speckled sylph" – implying these hills are a realm inhabited by folklore creatures, whose "wild voices" should be ignored. The juxtaposition of "supermen's hills" with "love lies there still" adds a layer of poignant tragedy to the foreboding atmosphere. This lyrical construction is effective because it builds an atmosphere of mystery and dread through evocative imagery and a relentless, almost hypnotic repetition. The warnings are dire, and the implied inhabitants are powerful, making the "hollow hills" feel like a place of both ancient power and deep sorrow. The final address to "mortal you" directly implicates the listener, reinforcing the cautionary nature of the narrative and the profound sadness that seems to permeate these forbidden grounds.