Shattered in history
Shattered in paint
Oh, and the lengths that I’d
Stay up late
But brought to my space
The wonderful things I’ve learned to waste
I shoulda known, that I shouldn’t hide
To compromise and to covet all what’s inside
There is no design, you’ll have to decide
If you’ll come to know if I’m the faithful kind
Time and again
(Got all that I need)
Time to be brave
Content to the phrases
That at dawn we ain’t mazes
Just some kind of pages
This for my sister, that for my maple
It’s not knowing the road I’d known as a child of God
Nor to become stable
(So what if I lose, I’m satisfied)
Am I dependent in what I’m defending
And do we get to know what faith provides
Fold your hands into mine
I did my believing
Seeing every time
I know it’s lonely in the dark
And this year’s a visitor
And we have to know that faith declines
I’m not all out of mine
Unraveling the Meaning of “Faith” by Bon Iver
“Faith” by Bon Iver explores the delicate, often uncertain journey of belief and self-discovery. The song’s opening lines evoke a sense of fragmentation and introspection, where the narrator reflects on lessons learned and moments wasted. Through poetic imagery, Bon Iver touches on the struggle between vulnerability and self-protection, questioning whether one can truly be faithful—to themselves or others—without full understanding. The gentle repetition of time and bravery speaks to a desire for growth and acceptance amidst confusion. References to family and spirituality, like “my sister” and “child of God,” further deepen the song’s emotional layers, highlighting the tension between stability and surrender. Ultimately, “Faith” acknowledges that faith can wane, yet it remains a personal reservoir that helps us navigate the darkness and uncertainty of life.
Song Credits
- Artist: Bon Iver
- Songwriters: Justin Vernon, Chris Messina, Brad Cook, BJ Burton
- Release Year: 2019
- Label: Jagjaguwar