Meaning of "Acrobat" by Angel Olsen

In "Acrobat," Angel Olsen uses vivid imagery and metaphor to convey feelings of admiration, longing, and a desire for connection. The line "You are the crazy acrobat, you are the witch" depicts the person the narrator admires as someone fascinating and enchanting. The mention of the cat represents the narrator's role as a companion or follower.

The lyrics also express a longing to transform oneself and be more like the admired person. The phrase "I want to be a bit like you, I hope you don't mind if I do" suggests a desire to emulate the qualities that attract the narrator to this person. It hints at a yearning for self-improvement and growth.

The song also explores a deep connection, both physical and emotional, with the admired person. The lines "I love the way your body's made, I love the way your voice is sex" convey a strong physical attraction and an appreciation for their partner's unique qualities. The desire to be the "whisper upon your ear" and the "bed you miss" suggests a longing to be intimately connected and desired by the person they admire.

Throughout the song, there is a recurring theme of feeling alive after experiencing a metaphorical death. The line "I am alive, I am alive, I thought that I died" implies a sense of liberation or rebirth after feeling emotionally or spiritually dead. It could be interpreted as the narrator finding new life and purpose through their connection with this person.

Overall, "Acrobat" explores themes of admiration, longing, self-transformation, and the power of connection. It delves into the complexities of desire and the profound impact another person can have on one's sense of self and purpose.