Released: 2014
Hozier’s ‘Jackie and Wilson’ is a poignant rock ballad that speaks to the transformative power of love and companionship. The song is a romantic narrative that details the singer’s emotional journey, from a state of disillusionment and self-doubt to a newfound sense of purpose and optimism, brought about by the arrival of a woman in his life.
The opening lines depict the singer’s initial state of despair. He’s ‘tired,’ ‘seeing red,’ and feeling lost amidst a ‘swill’ of familiar vices. The ‘red in my eyes’ is a common phrase used to describe exhaustion or frustration. The ‘swill’ and ‘swine’ here refer to a state of self-degradation and negative influences.
But then, a woman ‘blows outta nowhere,’ a ‘roman candle of the wild.’ This phrase paints her as a bright, explosive force that disrupts his life. The ‘feeble disguise’ he wears is his attempt to hide his true self, but she sees through it, finding him ‘just in time.’
The ‘mid-youth crisis’ he mentions refers to a period of identity crisis, often experienced in one’s twenties or thirties. The singer admits to never having ‘felt young,’ indicating a life of hardship or premature maturity. However, this woman brings a sense of youthfulness and vitality into his life.
The chorus is a sweet testament to their relationship. She ‘saves’ him, soothes him, and accepts him for who he is. They share adventurous moments, like stealing a Lexus and playing detectives. The names ‘Jackie and Wilson’ for their future children are a nod to soul singer Jackie Wilson, hinting at the couple’s shared love for music.
The line ‘Me and my Isis growing black irises in the sunshine’ is particularly poetic. Isis is an Egyptian goddess associated with life and magic, suggesting the woman’s nurturing and transformative influence. The ‘black irises’ could symbolize the growth of something beautiful from their shared darkness.
The song ends on a somber note. The singer wakes from the ‘dream,’ alone, with the woman having ‘already left.’ He’s left ‘digging up the yard,’ metaphorically unearthing the remnants of their relationship. The ‘poor soul coming next’ suggests a cycle of love and loss, a common theme in rock ballads.
Overall, ‘Jackie and Wilson’ is a beautiful exploration of love’s power to uplift and heal, but also its transient nature. It’s a rock anthem that resonates with anyone who’s ever experienced the highs and lows of a passionate relationship.
