The lyrics tell a story of a woman who encounters a wounded fawn while riding, and tries to help it, but the fawn transforms into something else. The song touches on the hazards of love and the futility of pretty words when faced with challenges.

Meaning of "The Hazards of Love 1 (The Prettiest Whistles Won't Wrestle the Thistles Undone)" by The Decemberists

The lyrics of "The Hazards of Love 1" by The Decemberists explore the theme of love being unpredictable and fraught with challenges. The story of the woman encountering the wounded fawn symbolizes how love can start off innocent and pure but quickly turn into something unexpected and dangerous. The line "the prettiest whistles won't wrestle the thistles undone" suggests that despite the beauty and allure of love, it cannot always overcome obstacles or difficulties. The reference to other maidens with various occupations in the song may symbolize different paths in life and the different hazards they may face in their own quests for love and fulfillment. Overall, the song conveys a sense of caution and realism about the complexities and hazards of love.