Meaning of "The Crane Wife 1 & 2" by The Decemberists

"The Crane Wife 1 & 2" is based on a Japanese folk tale about a man who marries a crane when it takes the form of a woman. The lyrics of the song capture the essence of the story, but they also delve deeper into the themes of love, greed, and the consequences of our actions.

In the first part of the song, the man meets the crane and feels compelled to help it. This can be seen as a metaphor for an unexpected relationship entering his life. Despite being poor and lacking wealth or fame, the man gives everything he has to the crane, nursing it back to health. This represents the selflessness and devotion that can arise in a relationship.

They eventually get married, symbolizing a deeper commitment. Bells ringing sweet for their wedding indicates a happy celebration and a promising future. However, as time goes on, the man becomes consumed by greed and vanity. He forces the crane wife to weave for him, exploiting her talents for his own gain. This represents the imbalance of power within relationships and how selfishness can destroy love.

As a result of the man's actions, their fortunes begin to fade. The phrase "There's a bend in the wind and it rakes at my heart" suggests that the consequences of his greed are weighing heavily on him. The blood in the thread symbolizes the pain and suffering caused by his selfishness. The repetition of "heart" emphasizes the emotional toll of his actions.

Overall, "The Crane Wife 1 & 2" explores the complexities of love, greed, and the choices we make in relationships. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of selfishness and the importance of nurturing and cherishing the ones we love.