I think the reference to the 'solace of a poison fish' is saying that there is comfort in faith in Christianity, but it is corrupt (or maybe corrupting). Sam Beam seems to be one of those who believes in the teachings of Christianity, but not the dogma. I heard James Taylor say on TV the other night that he writes 'gospel music for agnostics'. I thought that was sort of applicable to Sam Beam, too. He uses intense religious symbolism, but always infuses his songs with doubt/skepticism. A tender-hearted heretic.
This song is really complex and simple at the same time. Like Beam92, I still am absorbing it. Whatever all Beam's symbolism means, it is truly beautiful.
I think the reference to the 'solace of a poison fish' is saying that there is comfort in faith in Christianity, but it is corrupt (or maybe corrupting). Sam Beam seems to be one of those who believes in the teachings of Christianity, but not the dogma. I heard James Taylor say on TV the other night that he writes 'gospel music for agnostics'. I thought that was sort of applicable to Sam Beam, too. He uses intense religious symbolism, but always infuses his songs with doubt/skepticism. A tender-hearted heretic. This song is really complex and simple at the same time. Like Beam92, I still am absorbing it. Whatever all Beam's symbolism means, it is truly beautiful.
Though I did not see this post until now, I will take that as the happy birthday you wished me in '07. I enjoyed reading your post.
Though I did not see this post until now, I will take that as the happy birthday you wished me in '07. I enjoyed reading your post.