About The Song
Within the compelling and sonically diverse landscape of Frida Lyngstad’s 1982 solo album, Something’s Going On, produced by Phil Collins, the track “Threnody” offers a unique and poignant moment of reflection. Unlike the album’s more rock-infused singles, “Threnody” stands as a delicate and somewhat melancholic piece, distinguished by its lyrical origin. The words for this song were not penned in the typical songwriting fashion but rather adapted from a bittersweet poem of the same name by the celebrated American writer and poet Dorothy Parker. This gives the song a distinct literary quality, setting it apart within Frida’s discography and highlighting her artistic sensitivity.
The genesis of “Threnody” is particularly intriguing due to its connection to Dorothy Parker, a prominent figure of the early 20th century known for her sharp wit, insightful observations on life and love, and her often-wry and melancholic poetic voice. Parker’s original poem “Threnody” encapsulates themes of heartbreak, resilience, and a somewhat detached acceptance of loss. By choosing to set this particular poem to music, Frida demonstrated a sophisticated artistic sensibility and a willingness to explore lyrical content with a depth beyond typical pop conventions. The musical arrangement for the song was crafted by Per Gessle, who would later achieve international fame as one half of the Swedish pop duo Roxette. His contribution adds another layer of Swedish musical talent to this international collaboration.
The production of Something’s Going On by Phil Collins provides a subtle yet supportive backdrop for “Threnody“. In contrast to the gated drums and rock-oriented arrangements of other tracks on the album, the production here is likely more understated, allowing the focus to remain on Frida’s vocal delivery and the evocative nature of Parker’s words. The arrangement might feature gentle instrumentation, perhaps incorporating acoustic elements and a more subdued rhythm section, creating a reflective and intimate atmosphere that complements the poem’s tone.
Frida’s vocal performance on “Threnody” is a testament to her versatility and her ability to interpret complex emotional nuances. Her delivery is likely characterized by a delicate and heartfelt approach, capturing the bittersweet essence of Parker’s poem. She navigates the lyrical phrases with a sense of understanding and empathy, conveying the underlying sadness and the quiet strength found within the verses. Her performance would likely emphasize clarity and emotional honesty, allowing the beauty and melancholy of the words to resonate deeply with the listener.
The lyrics of “Threnody,” originating from Dorothy Parker’s poem, explore themes of heartbreak and a somewhat detached acceptance of loss. The opening lines, “Lilacs blossom just as sweet / Now my heart is shattered,” immediately establish a contrast between the enduring beauty of nature and the singer’s internal devastation. This juxtaposition sets the tone for a reflection on how life continues even in the face of personal sorrow.
The verses continue to explore this theme, pondering the significance of individual heartbreak in the grand scheme of things: “If I bowled it down the street / Who’s to say it mattered? / If there’s one that rode away / What would I be missing?” These lines suggest a sense of perspective, a questioning of the ultimate importance of one’s own pain in the larger context of the world. There’s a hint of resignation, a sense that life will go on regardless of personal suffering.
Further verses delve into the complexities of love and loss, using evocative imagery: “Lips that taste of tears, they say / Are the best for kissing. / Eyes that watch the morning star / Seem a little brighter.” These lines offer paradoxical observations, suggesting that even in sadness, there can be a unique kind of beauty or intensity. The imagery is both poetic and thought-provoking, reflecting Parker’s characteristic style.
The poem also touches upon themes of guarding oneself and the nature of solace: “Shall I bar the strolling guest? / Bind my brow with willow. / When, they say, the empty breast / Is the softer pillow?” These lines suggest a weariness with emotional engagement and a seeking of comfort in solitude or even a kind of emotional emptiness.
The recurring motif of a broken heart is handled with a sense of detached observation: “That a heart falls tinkling down / Never think it ceases. / Every likely lad in town / Gathers up the pieces.” This imagery suggests the commonality of heartbreak and the way others might perceive and even capitalize on one’s vulnerability.
The final verses return to the theme of outward indifference masking inner turmoil: “If there’s one gone whistling by / Would I let it grieve me? / Let him wonder if I lie / Let him half believe me.” This conveys a sense of pride and a reluctance to fully reveal the depth of the pain, choosing instead to maintain a facade of nonchalance.
Musically, “Threnody” likely adopts a gentle and folk-pop influenced sound, as suggested by descriptions of the album. The arrangement by Per Gessle would likely emphasize the melodic and lyrical content, creating a contemplative and slightly melancholic atmosphere. The overall effect would be one of understated beauty, allowing the poignant verses of Dorothy Parker to resonate through Frida’s heartfelt interpretation in 1982.
In conclusion, Frida’s rendition of “Threnody” stands as a unique and artistically significant track within her solo work. By setting Dorothy Parker’s poignant poem to music with the collaboration of Per Gessle and the sensitive production of Phil Collins, Frida created a moment of quiet introspection on Something’s Going On. The song’s literary origins and Frida’s delicate vocal delivery combine to offer a bittersweet and thought-provoking exploration of heartbreak and resilience, showcasing a different facet of her artistic expression in 1982.