AUATC Lyrics
Well, you're up all night
And your head's down low
If you can see your own kite (Shed a little light, oh Lord)
You know a burden ain't a bust
You are the only way to trust ya
No no no
It's only fair it burns up in that rust
[Chorus]
Lay down, Martha
Lay down the holy banner flag
Hold out, Martha
Help is surely on its way
And it's not right
Don't bask in the glory of mine
But oh no, they can't come take that part away
[Verse 2]
They ate up all their cake
And they drank their own wine
They were always on the take (Will you shed a little light, oh Lord)
Well, you know the burden ain't a gust
The only path to love is touch
I'll always know that all that proper mounts too much
Lay down, Martha
Lay all that alabaster down
There's no master and
Help will surely come around
I don't ask
I don't bask in the glory
Oh no (nah nah)
And it's up to me if I don't wear a mask
[Outro]
Well you're up all night
And your neighbors don't know
Man, your neighbors don't know
(So shed a little light, oh Lord)
You know a burden ain't a bust
You know that truth's been known to crutch
No no no
Only them whose pauper lays him up
About
The new Bon Iver track “AUATC” – an acronym for “Ate Up All Their Cake” – was released on 5 August 2020 and is characterized by a surprising vocal blend featuring appearances of Bruce Springsteen, Jenny Lewis, Jenn Wasner and Elsa Jensen, in addition to Justin Vernon’s own.
According to a statement by the band, the cryptic lyrics relate to the disparities, marginalization and oppression caused by capitalism and how the global pandemic has magnified these issues.
The cover art of the track teases it as “Bon Iver: Season Five – Episode 2” (PDLIF having been labeled the first episode). The fourth Bon Iver album – i,i – had been dubbed the fourth (and possibly final) season in their album cycle. However, the listing of the two new tracks as episodes of a fifth season seems to confirm that a fifth album is in the works.
The track has a very specific length of 2 minutes and 22 seconds – 2:22. Considering Justin Vernon’s knack for numerology – specifically Justin’s personal connections to the number 22, which came to the foreground in many aspects of the album 22, A Million – this is unlikely to be a coincidence. In numerology, the number ‘222’ is often connected to new beginnings and new creation. This fits in neatly with the teasing of a new album and “season”, of which this would be the second episode (the number ‘2’ – once again). Another meaning connected to the number ‘222’ is that of cooperation and being in harmony with yourself and others around you. Considering Bon Iver’s increased focus on collaborations – both within the PEOPLE collective as outside of it – and Justin’s continued personal search, this connection rings true as well.
Q&A
Find answers to frequently asked questions about the song and explore its deeper meaning
“Each and every person on earth deserves to live fully with dignity, equity, justice, and joy. Instead, our capitalistic societies have created a world that is most supportive of the wealthy and the elite, and the predatory corporations and policies that drive their disproportionate success.
The average person is cast aside and unheard; marginalized communities are further oppressed due to race, economic status, gender, sexual orientation, creed, criminal record, housing stability, education, ability, documentation status, and more. The pandemic further magnifies these grave inequities and this unchecked greed.
We must continue the fight to topple capitalism as we know it, and recognize our collective participation in its dominant institutions. Bon Iver acknowledges our own position within and use of capitalistic practices. It is with recognition of our privilege that we are fully committed to using our unique platform to challenge and change capitalism within our industry, and far beyond.
We must empower and embrace our vulnerable neighbors. We must fight racism and sexism and classism to build a stronger foundation for the home we all deserve. We must support the leaders and organizations working to change our world for the better. From providing safe and stable housing, to empowering women, to liberating incarcerated people, to celebrating art and music, to fighting climate change, these organizations work tirelessly to foster a world that celebrates our humanity on a local, national, and global level. Please explore, support, and take action:
LOCAL
Minneapolis Sanctuary Movement
(contact legislators / leadership; donate)
Red Letter Grant
(participate; apply)
NATIONAL
Equal Justice Initiative
(learn; vote)
NIVA
(contact legislators; support favorite venue)
GLOBAL
350.org
(join movement; participate in “Raise Your Voice for a #JustRecovery” campaign)"
- 1.PDLIF
- 2.AUATC
- Room to Spare (Missing Lyrics)
