Meaning of "Cross Your Fingers" by Laura Marling

The lyrics of "Cross Your Fingers" convey a dark and somber atmosphere, exploring themes of decay and sacrifice. The opening lines, "Look down on the body that you have grown, Four mountains stand around you they're not your own," describe a sense of detachment and disconnection from one's own body. This can be interpreted as a reflection on the fragility and impermanence of human existence.

The repetition of "Since you broke down, Since I broke down, Since we broke down," suggests a shared experience of pain or trauma. This may signify a relationship that has fallen apart or individuals who have experienced personal breakdowns. The mention of jumping into a grave and dying might allude to a desire to escape from the hardships and burdens of life.

The lines, "And on my word you'll give up your whole life for me, And you'll be reborn bigger and stronger And less alive," delve into the theme of sacrifice. It speaks to the idea that through sacrificing oneself for another, one can find renewal and transformation. The juxtaposition of being "bigger and stronger" but "less alive" suggests that such sacrifice may come at the cost of one's own well-being and sense of self.

The repetition of the phrase "Cross your fingers hold your toes, we're all gonna die when the building blows" adds to the sense of impending doom and destruction. The crumbling house and the reference to "feet of crows" imply a decay and darkness that surrounds the speaker. This imagery can be seen as a metaphor for the decay of relationships and the passage of time.

In conclusion, "Cross Your Fingers" by Laura Marling explores themes of decay, sacrifice, and the potential for growth that can arise from hardship. The lyrics evoke a sense of fragility, loss, and the inherent risks and uncertainties of life. The song invites reflection on the transient nature of existence and the complexities of human relationships.