Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: psych-rock
Song Meaning of “Mystery” by Beth Orton
Mystery by Beth Orton explores the idea of searching for something that may never be found, a longing for something without knowing what that is. The mystery of life can be found in the most mundane moments, and when we step back and take in the beauty of what life has to offer, we can still find something elusive and unknown.
The song starts off with the hauntingly haunting vocals of Beth Orton singing, “What mystery dwells in the depth of these woods/the sun’s gaze, narrow, like a hood.” These lines imply an emotion of searching and exploring, with the sun peering down on the scene like a mysterious figure searching for something but never revealing what it is.
The next verse speaks of taking a step back to enjoy the beauty of the day, “My body still, my head in the sky/it’s not a question of time, it’s the wonder of love.” This paints a picture of someone finding joy and appreciation for life, despite an underlying uncertainty in what the future holds.
The chorus then takes on a more resolute outlook, with lyrics that proclaim “So I’ll try to see the mystery/Let me feel the mystery/And let me unlock the mystery.” The singer is determined in her quest for understanding and unafraid of the unknown.