Song Meaning
The lyrics paint a picture of a deep, almost spiritual devotion, driven by a powerful, unyielding love. The opening lines suggest a motivation beyond simple fear, hinting at a profound internal force that anchors the speaker. This force is described as keeping them "loving and keeps me here," with "arms at the spirit" lifting them high and a "flame in my heart that will not die." This establishes a tone of enduring passion and commitment.
The central tension seems to revolve around the act of creation and perseverance, all in service of this love. The repeated "And we do it, do it, do it for love" acts as a mantra, grounding every action in this singular motivation. This isn't just passive affection; it's an active, ongoing commitment, whether it's the "soil speed the plough" or building a "house with a flat roof" to "lounge away my youth." The imagery shifts from the pastoral to the domestic, but the underlying drive remains consistent.
The most striking craft element is the juxtaposition of seemingly disparate ideas and the use of evocative, almost allegorical language. Phrases like "brother country and sister sun" and "Paradise Alley" create a unique, mythic landscape. The wisdom offered in the later verses, "What can't be cured must be endured / But what can be must be," and "time remembered is grief forgotten / And frosts are slain and flowers begotten," suggests a philosophy of acceptance and renewal that fuels this enduring love. The "world in her arms has just begun" implies a hopeful, expansive future born from this dedication.
Ultimately, the lyrics resonate because they articulate a powerful, almost elemental force that transcends ordinary struggle. The repetition of the core phrase, combined with the rich, symbolic imagery, creates a sense of unwavering purpose. It’s the feeling of being part of something larger, a commitment so profound it shapes perception and action, turning endurance into creation and grief into growth, all under the banner of love.