"Cold Blows The Wind" by Ween is a mournful folk ballad about a woman grieving the loss of her true love. She vows to mourn for him for twelve months and one day, but when the time passes, her lover mysteriously rises from the grave. He asks why she weeps, to which she replies that her lips are as cold as clay and his kiss would shorten her days. The song also mentions their memories in a garden grove and the request for unattainable items like water from a stone and milk from a maiden's breast. Despite the resurrection, the woman still declares her unwavering love for her deceased partner and her commitment to eternal mourning.

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Meaning of "Cold Blows The Wind" by Ween


"Cold Blows The Wind" carries layers of meaning, combining themes of love, death, and the supernatural. The song portrays a woman deeply devoted and grieving for her lost love. By pledging to mourn for twelve months and one day, she demonstrates the extent of her love and loyalty. The eerie resurrection of her lover brings forth elements of the supernatural, blurring the line between life and death.

The mention of the woman's lips being as cold as clay and the warning that his kiss would shorten her days hints at the potential dangers of breaking the barrier between life and death. It suggests that bringing the dead back to life could have dire consequences for the living. This cautionary element adds a sense of foreboding to the song.

The lyrics also feature references to nature, with the wind blowing cold, drops of rain falling, and the withering flowers. These elements emphasize the melancholic atmosphere and mirror the emotional state of the grieving woman. The garden grove serves as a symbol of lost happiness and a reminder of the fleeting nature of life.

Moreover, the song incorporates elements of traditional balladry by including impossible requests like fetching a nun from a deep dungeon, water from a stone, and milk from a maiden's breast. These unattainable desires highlight the woman's longing and desperation, underscoring the tragic nature of her loss.

In essence, "Cold Blows The Wind" delves into themes of love, loss, and the supernatural. It explores the boundaries between life and death, emphasizing the consequences of tampering with the natural order. Through its mournful lyrics and haunting imagery, the song captures the deep anguish and devotion of a grieving lover.