Meaning of "Wisteria" by Hands Like Houses

The lyrics of "Wisteria" by Hands Like Houses delve into the metaphorical representation of a garden and its correlation with the growth and transformation of the speaker. The garden is depicted as a symbol of self-discovery and the search for purpose and fulfillment. The opening lines suggest a sense of falling, indicating a state of vulnerability and uncertainty. The image of sleepers scattered in the soil sets the stage for the metaphorical journey that follows.

The speaker expresses their fixation on their own patch of earth, emphasizing that their attention is solely focused on what they already possess. Their dirt-stained clothes serve as a reminder of the potential and possibilities that lie within them. The emergence of a shoot from beneath the earth highlights the beginnings of growth and change.

The reference to Mary and her garden in the nursery rhyme "Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary" reinforces the theme of growth and questions the speaker's own ability to cultivate a flourishing garden within themselves. The speaker seeks guidance on how to come alive and understand what they have sown. The inclusion of branches in their bones suggests that they have become intertwined with their environment, implying their deep connection to nature and their personal growth.

In the second verse, the lyrics introduce the concept of choice and the consequences that follow. The branches, rope, and tire symbolize different paths and opportunities that the speaker has encountered. They ultimately choose the air, representing ambition and aspiration, but in abandoning that choice, they lose their grip and fall to the ground.

The garden is described as unkempt chaos, reflecting the speaker's struggles and challenges on their journey of self-discovery. But even in the midst of chaos, the garden remains an essential part of their identity. The repetition of "Mary, Mary, tell me how your garden grows" emphasizes their continued search for guidance and understanding.

The turning point in the lyrics occurs when September arrives, symbolizing a new season and a fresh start. The winter's curse is lifted as the overcast is swept away by the whistling wind. The speaker is cut through like knives, suggesting a painful awakening or realization. September serves as a catalyst for the speaker's transformation, showing them that they have been alive all along.

Ultimately, "Wisteria" explores themes of growth, abandonment, and resilience. It delves into the internal journey of the speaker and their quest for self-discovery and meaning. The garden serves as a metaphor for personal growth and the challenges and choices that shape an individual's identity.