Freedom Hangs Like Heaven Lyrics

Lyric discussion by nubz 

Cover art for Freedom Hangs Like Heaven lyrics by Iron & Wine

"Freedom Hangs Like Heaven Over Everyone" is a very good line because, like Heaven Freedom always seems just out of your reach. At least untill you die.

I think the first and third verses are about Mary, Jeuss mother. The second verse sounds like it is about Mary Magdelene. He also references the ten virgins in that verse, with the "lamp oil lovers". "Mary, carry your shame" could be about the fact that it is implied she was a prositute.