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Meaning of There Are Listed Buildings (Live At Islington Assembly Hall) by Los Campesinos!

The Enduring Mystery of "There Are Listed Buildings (Live At Islington Assembly Hall)"

Los Campesinos!’ song "There Are Listed Buildings (Live At Islington Assembly Hall)" has left many listeners enthralled with its intricate web of lyrics, painting a vivid picture of a complex relationship. As someone who has had the pleasure of delving into this enigmatic song, I will explore the themes of love, longing, and compromise that it embodies.

The Language of Longing

The song’s lyrics are replete with imagery that evokes a sense of desperation and longing. "Glugging salt water from a sandcastle bucket" is a potent symbol of the narrator’s willingness to settle for anything, even if it’s not fulfilling or satisfying. This sense of resignation is underscored by the complaint about "tap water running solid white", which may represent disappointment and dissatisfaction with the mundane aspects of life. These images evoke a sense of desperation, as if the narrator is grasping at any available thread to cling to.

The Search for Connection

The narrator’s desire for connection and attention is evident in the imagery of "fishing for crabs", where the only bite feels like a rare and precious moment of connection. This sense of craving is heightened by the observation of the other person’s face in a compact mirror, noticing the "powder settles in" and "premature crows feet" – symbols of stress, worry, and emotional strain. It’s as if the narrator is drawn to the imperfections and vulnerabilities of the other person, acknowledging that the relationship may be causing emotional pain.

Guarded Hearts and Wounded Souls

The chorus, "There are listed buildings, and woe betide your listed heart", hints at the other person’s guarded or wounded heart. The image of "listed buildings" serves as a metaphor for protected or significant structures, implying that the other person’s heart has been damaged by past traumas or emotional barriers. Despite this, the narrator is willing to consider doing things for love, if not for financial or material gains. This underscores the complex dynamics of the relationship, where the narrator is drawn to the other person’s vulnerability despite the challenges and difficulties.

Adventures in Freedom and Love

The second verse takes us on a journey of adventure and escapism, as the narrator "commandeers a fishing boat" and "drifts further than they could swim". This sense of freedom and liberation is contrasted with the fading neon signs and the dance at the harbor with security lights, which represent a desire to embrace the moment and let go of worries. The line "You are a glutton for love, can you give me some romance? I’m a glutton for sin" reveals a longing for affection and excitement, while acknowledging the complexities and flaws within the relationship.

A Tale of Compromise

Throughout the song, the narrator grapples with the idea of compromise and the willingness to accept any small gestures or acts of affection. The repeated chorus, "There are listed buildings, and woe betide your listed heart", emphasizes the idea that even though love may not be the sole motivator, the narrator is willing to accept what they can get. The phrase "if it were not for the money" suggests that material or external factors may influence the narrator’s choices or decisions. This compromise is not a surrender, but rather an acknowledgment of the imperfections and challenges that come with loving another person.

Conclusion

As I reflect on my own experiences with this song, I am struck by its ability to capture the complexities and contradictions within a relationship. "There Are Listed Buildings (Live At Islington Assembly Hall)" is a powerful exploration of the human experience, delving into the longings, compromises, and desires that we all navigate in our pursuit of love and connection. Whether you’re an avid fan of Los Campesinos! or just discovering their music, this song is sure to resonate with you on a deep level, leaving you to ponder the mysteries of love, relationships, and the human heart.

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