Meaning of "Stonemilker" by Björk

The lyrics of "Stonemilker" delve into the complexities of emotional connection and the need for understanding and respect in a relationship. The song begins by hinting at the randomness and unpredictability of fate, emphasizing the importance of finding a common ground with one's partner ("Find our mutual coordinate"). Moments of clarity and understanding are rare but valuable, and the speaker feels compelled to document and cherish them.

The song then delves into the idea of emotional openness and the barriers that can hinder it. The speaker longs for emotional respect, expressing their own emotional needs and the desire to synchronize feelings with their partner. They want to understand and experience the pain felt by their loved one, comparing it to the unyielding task of milking a stone – a difficult and impossible feat. This emphasizes the struggle of truly understanding someone else's emotions and the effort required to make them open up ("To get you to say it").

The lyrics also highlight the contrast between those who are open and vulnerable in a relationship and those who have closed themselves off. The speaker questions who is open-chested and who has coagulated, indicating the different approaches people take in their emotional availability. They ponder on the challenge of staying open when feeling closed, acknowledging that emotional needs exist within both parties.

Ultimately, the song emphasizes the yearning for emotional connection and the importance of mutual understanding and respect in a relationship. It highlights the difficulty of truly understanding someone and the effort required to bridge emotional gaps. The desire to synchronize feelings and experiences creates a foundation for empathy, vulnerability, and ultimately, a deeper emotional connection between partners.