Meaning of "What the Moon Does" by Ben Howard

The lyrics of "What the Moon Does" delve into the emotional turmoil and vulnerability experienced by the speaker. The opening lines, "Oh, I'm a wreck, with you chained" allude to a state of being broken and trapped, with the speaker seeking salvation in another person. The line "Feed the dog, walk a mile" suggests the mundane activities that bring some semblance of stability and routine. The request to "tell me beautiful things, like how the river bends in a wild wood creek" reflects a desire for moments of tranquility and beauty amidst the chaos.

The repetition of the line "Am I making history? Am I working out?" conveys a sense of self-reflection and introspection. The speaker questions their impact on the world and their personal growth, seeking validation and purpose. The mention of the moon as a symbol of devotion emphasizes the transformative power it wields in the speaker's life. The moon is often associated with change, cycles, and emotions. By connecting the moon to the devout, the lyrics suggest that the moon's influence brings about a profound shift in the speaker's perception and spirituality.

The lyrics also touch upon the theme of dreams. The line "We may be the broken wings on a butterfly, but didn't we dream big once or twice?" reflects a nostalgic longing for the aspirations and ambitions of the past. It conveys a sense of resignation and acceptance that dreams may not always materialize but finding solace in the memories and experiences associated with those dreams.

The refrain "Oh, I'm a wreck, with you chained" reinforces the ongoing struggle and dependence on another person for stability and sanity. The repetition of "Most things now make me smile" suggests that despite the challenges, the speaker finds some form of happiness or contentment in the present.

The closing lines "Only what the moon does to the devout" summarize the overall meaning of the lyrics. It implies that the moon's influence on the devoted souls is powerful, perhaps providing solace, guidance, or perspective in times of chaos and turmoil.