Meaning of "Won't You Come Home" by Devendra Banhart

The lyrics of "Won't You Come Home" evoke a sense of longing and vulnerability, as the speaker expresses their desire for someone to return to them. The repeated plea of "Won't you come home I surrender" suggests a surrendering of oneself to the other person, demonstrating the speaker's willingness to let their guard down and open themselves up emotionally. The use of the phrase "my sweet bag of bones" conveys a deep affection and attachment to the person who is being called home. The speaker describes them as being "drunk and tender," which could suggest that the person being addressed is someone who may have a tumultuous or unpredictable nature but is still cherished by the speaker.

The lines "Why don't you want to stay here suspended / In the dead arms of a year that has ended" touch upon the passage of time and the desire to hold onto the past. The speaker is inviting their loved one to stay in this suspended state, in a moment that has already passed, suggesting a reluctance to let go of the cherished memories and experiences they shared. The metaphor of the "dead arms of a year that has ended" conveys a sense of finality and loss, emphasizing the importance of the person they're addressing in their life.

The lines "Can't see the shape of the song that we're singing / River too dirty for us to go swimming" hint at a sense of uncertainty and struggle in their relationship. The speaker is unable to fully comprehend or make sense of the dynamics between them, comparing it to a song with an unclear melody. The mention of a dirty river symbolizes obstacles or challenges that prevent them from moving forward or fully immersing themselves in their connection.

The final repetition of the plea "Won't you come home I surrender" underscores the speaker's desperation for their loved one's return. The choice to use this as the closing line reiterates the emotional impact and significance of their absence. Overall, "Won't You Come Home" is a heartfelt plea for the return of a loved one, tinged with longing, vulnerability, and a desire to recapture the past.