I see that this is something of a cover of a popular song performed by Rihanna, one that I was unaware of. Cat Powers' (Chan Marshall's) soulful rendition and lyrical changes make this a much better song to me.
For me, the heart of the song is in the lines:
"Funny you're the broken one
but I'm the only one who needed saving"
After reading comments on Rihanna's version, I realize that these lines could be read in two different ways: 1) (the way I read it) that they both knew that he was broken in some way, but it turns out he wasn't really in need of saving, and only she was, and 2) they both knew that she needed saving, but it turns out that he's the broken one.
For me, the first reading makes more sense, and makes the song more emotionally revealing on Chan's part. The delightful syncopated rhythm of the lines adds to their heft.
I also enjoyed the way that the word "round" connects to both adjacent verses: she wants him to stay (a)round.
I see that this is something of a cover of a popular song performed by Rihanna, one that I was unaware of. Cat Powers' (Chan Marshall's) soulful rendition and lyrical changes make this a much better song to me.
For me, the heart of the song is in the lines:
"Funny you're the broken one but I'm the only one who needed saving"
After reading comments on Rihanna's version, I realize that these lines could be read in two different ways: 1) (the way I read it) that they both knew that he was broken in some way, but it turns out he wasn't really in need of saving, and only she was, and 2) they both knew that she needed saving, but it turns out that he's the broken one.
For me, the first reading makes more sense, and makes the song more emotionally revealing on Chan's part. The delightful syncopated rhythm of the lines adds to their heft.
I also enjoyed the way that the word "round" connects to both adjacent verses: she wants him to stay (a)round.
Overall a very beautiful, moody piece.