"Ancestress" by Björk is a song that explores the concept of lineage and ancestral connections. The lyrics depict the singer's deep connection with her ancestors and the ways in which their influence shapes her life.
In the first verse, Björk describes her skull as her cathedral, symbolizing the sacred space within her where the bond with her ancestors is honored. She reminisces about her childhood, when her ancestor would sing to her in a sincere and angelic voice. This singing connects them both and generates a sense of gratitude towards her ancestor's integrity.
The chorus emphasizes the passing of time and how the vibrant rebellion of the ancestors is gradually fading away. Björk sees herself as their guardian of hope, ensuring that hope is present at all times.
The second verse delves into the rebellion of Björk's ancestor. Their vibrant and pulsating nature clashes with the medical interventions that were forced upon them, such as the insertion of a pacemaker. Björk questions whether her departure from the traditions and expectations of life is viewed as punishment by her ancestors, and if they truly believe that she has caused them harm by not conforming to societal norms.
In the third verse, Björk highlights her ancestor's idiosyncratic sense of rhythm and the freedom that comes from having dyslexia. Her ancestor invents words and adds syllables, creating their own language and form of expression.
The fourth verse describes the struggles faced by Björk's ancestor, including the reliance on a breathing machine and the revelation of their resilience.
The fifth verse reflects on the shared existence and physical connection Björk has with her ancestor. Despite her attempts to distance herself from her ancestry, she acknowledges that they are intertwined and cannot be easily escaped. She rejects the notion that her ancestry is insignificant or mediocre.
The chorus in this section symbolizes the scent of the final farewell, indicating that separation has been experienced for centuries. It becomes clear that the concept of "ancestor" is not just an individual or inherited trait, but a part of a collective human experience.
In the final verse, Björk asserts that nature itself has written this psalm, expanding the kingdom of ancestral connections. The mention of translucent skin and a preserved cold palm evokes the imagery of death and embalming, suggesting a reflection on mortality and the continuation of ancestral heritage.
Overall, "Ancestress" delves into the deep connection between Björk and her ancestors, exploring themes of lineage, identity, rebellion, and the enduring influence of those who came before.