As someone commented, a hairshirt was a garment of self imposed punishment. Michael Stipe is gay and likely went through years of isolation, confusion, hiding and loneliness all his life….until he hung it up …freed himself…and became at peace with his love and life. Absolutely beautiful song in every way. Applies to anything anyone ever needs to quit to finally see the beautiful light and life.
As someone commented, a hairshirt was a garment of self imposed punishment. Michael Stipe is gay and likely went through years of isolation, confusion, hiding and loneliness all his life….until he hung it up …freed himself…and became at peace with his love and life. Absolutely beautiful song in every way. Applies to anything anyone ever needs to quit to finally see the beautiful light and life.