Hozier - Cherry Wine

[@AliceP.]

I like that the video doesn't show the actual abuse, it chooses to show us their loving moments and then her black eye when she's alone. Frequently that's how it works.

[@RupertDanielEmma]

It doesn't show the actual action of the physical abuse I think for the intent of showing the other side of abusive relationships where the guilt and manipulation manifest, which are so often part of the cause for people to remain in abusive relationships. Its really sad

[@karenweger6314]

I think the video is showing the black eye. As a code. Wake up people . This dude sings good looks good. But read the lyrics to his songs. He Suposedly wrote. Ha ha Especially the song Take me to church.

[@michellemoore1649]

@@ashleyyang2510 probably some conspiracy bulls*it. Best not to engage

[@askewhumour4646]

Was at that part while reading this comment! 😅

[@northide8785]

@Apollinaria Zhuravlyov stop you've violated the law

[@Majlc5]

I appreciate how the lyrics are about a man being abused by his girlfriend and the video is a woman being abused by her boyfriend It really shows how abuse can go both ways and isn't just specific to one gender

[@bwahahahahahahahahahahahah8374]

It's the same with Take Me to Church. It shows two homosexual males in the video while the lyrics are suggesting that it's a female

[@DendyJungle]

+BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHA oh yeah

[@scarletpeoni9347]

True, or people lie, something like 60% of domestic violence both people are violent.

[@elizabethmichelle9412]

+Creative Contagion that's so rude just respect this issue

[@_evaps_]

👌👊

[@amymclaren5741]

Isn't it crazy how he's only ever loving to her and treating her with tenderness in the frames we can see. But the audience still knows that he's the person that hurt her.

[@CMrifaa]

We know it when he couldn't even look at her bruises and try to cover it up with her hair😥

[@zepfan9993]

But it’s weird to me because the song is about spousal abuse from the woman towards the man

[@hannahlouise5578]

@@zepfan9993 I think the song being about abuse from a women and the video about abuse from a man shows that abuse can go either way and anyone can be abused

[@angelgood1867]

It’s the way he touches her. Too soft, too caring. He covers her face with her hair - he doesn’t want to see his sins, and he doesn’t want her to remember. I’ve been there. Pulling my sleeves down, bringing me gifts just to quiet my mind so that I wouldn’t leave.

[@leighrewhite5930]

That's deep.

[@ginger2153]

This song makes me cry every time because it’s about abuse, but it’s STILL a love song, and that combination of feelings is absolutely unbearable if you’ve ever been there.

[@byulaire]

Word ..

[@iheartshaneandjeffree]

The literal love of my life that was my high school sweetheart…12 years together and a ten year old. Exactly what you described. Then he was murdered October 29. I promise this combination of feelings can be so much worse 😢 I feel like I want to die

[@ginger2153]

@@iheartshaneandjeffree I'm so sorry. Life can bring such horrible things, and grief after loss is monstrously cruel. I hope you're able to find some relief with loved ones.

[@iheartshaneandjeffree]

@@ginger2153 thank you 🖤

[@Laajio]

He says nothing about abuse in the song , what r u talking about

[@smashleyjones3593]

"she loves like sleep to the freezing" is by far best description of unhealthy love I've ever heard...

[@taylinlaret8521]

I don't get it. Could you explain what it means?

[@Emmah1243]

Taylin Laret sleeping while you’re in the freezing cold is dangerous; it’s very likely you’ll die. However, it can almost be a welcoming respite and feel peaceful and soothing. Her love is juxtaposed with this; it can feel right and wonderful, but is sinister in that it’s likely to kill him in the end. I believe it reflects both the loving and terrible parts of an abusive relationship.

[@breaddboy]

Sleeping while you are freezing is also the only freedom you have from the biting frost. since when you are that cold you cant think of anything else. But as said before it's Likley you'll not wake up. I've always taken the line as that loving her is beautiful and peaceful in the moment but in reality your just trying to escape the real pain.

[@Emmah1243]

@Shini Yeah, it reminds me of how after the abuser has been cruel or violent, afterwards they are so wonderful and remorseful and loving and gentle. And you almost want to just disappear into that sweet side of them (like falling asleep in the cold) and hold on to that. But alas, that loving side doesn't dominate for long and as we have said, overall abusive relationships don't end well.

[@breaddboy]

@@Emmah1243 you also just want to fool yourself into believing that they are not the abusive monster that they've become, that way you can continue to pretend and fool yourself that you are happy. I never really thought this hard about one line from this song before

[@dontmindme.imjustafraidofe9327]

I love how Saoirse’s acting can pull us in with just her face. She doesn’t even have to say anything.

[@groverkiinmuppetborn714]

THAT'S SAOIRSE?

[@hazri8758]

@@groverkiinmuppetborn714 sure that is

[@sofiasalsabila9264]

WAIT I JUST REALIZED THAT ITS HER LMAO

[@kimdahyun2893]

NOOOOO WHY IS SHE KISSING THAT UGLY DUDE ;(

[@kayanoelani4134]

Shes so talented and beautiful.

[@Emmah1243]

The video kills me. He seems so gentle and loving with her, and yet he still hurts her. It hits too close to home. Thank you Hozier for a poignant and amazing song.

[@Danielle777rw]

emma h an abuse is hidden. you smile every day yet are fake as you keep a dirty secret

[@gi8964]

emma h sadly that’s how it goes sometimes and the victim comes to believe and hope in the tender moments but ignore the abuse

[@MissMayaOno]

They are always as wonderful and sweet and charming as they are horrible and violent. That's the sickness in it. They would never get anywhere with people if they revealed their true nature all at once...they're master charmers. Women fall over themselves to be around them...they typically have a painful relationship with their mothers, that is how they end up with this character defect. And I fall for it every time.. and for .all of us girls, the pain of rejection, typically, coming from our relationships with our fathers, is only made barrable by the juxtaposition of their drastic mood swings. The sweet is made that much sweeter after the violent abusive blow outs. And the abrupt mean streak carved out our hearts because we bare all of ourselves so that we may bask on the warmth of their gentile and tender love... this perpetual struggle, the ever looming reality of fleeting intimacy, the pendulum swing is addicting ike a drug ...and the bruises are not even the bad part...

[@sweet_bitch8955]

@@MissMayaOno love this ty

[@ciaranewman2903]

⁠​⁠​⁠@@Dogmeat47women get away with what?? also yeah that’s what the song is about, but they probably chose to do this in the music video to show that abuse can happen with everyone no matter the gender, the lyrics and the video show different perspectives and that’s not a bad thing at all.

[@dxx7373]

Saoirse was 20 in this video. 20 years old! So mature and talented, incredible. give that girl an Oscar already!

[@leejaycehoward8835]

Uhhhhh was this filmed before 2016??? cause she 29 rn and 29-7=22 soooo

[@winters_children2009]

I didn't even realize tha was Saoirse until I read this comment

[@zlivzzz]

​​​@@leejaycehoward8835considering this was released before she turned 22 and it was filmed even before that so she was probably either 20 or 21!

[@leejaycehoward8835]

@@zlivzzz okay that’s makes more sense if was filmed way earlier thank you

[@Brookiecookiebaby]

She looks 40, white people age horribly😂😂

[@hunteraschmutat793]

The sweetness of the music contrasts so well with the bitterness of his situation. Like Cherry Wine. It's just perfect.

[@orangemonsoon1883]

Well said wee lady

[@khalifalkhlifah1308]

🙋‍♂️

[@peachpixiedust]

His situation? I think it's hers

[@leiliafshar4747]

@@peachpixiedust domestic violence isn’t limited to abusive husbands only. Lyric is about abusive wife/girlfriend and music video is about abusive husband/boyfriend.

[@Anushka-h9p]

​@@peachpixiedust Listen to the lyrics

[@harmonyquinn2557]

The way he comes up when he sees her staring at her black-eyed reflection just to kiss and cover her eye with her hair and walk away is such an intimate representation of abuse. The way someone will try to suck you back in with love and forgive the damage, but there’s no erasing the trauma.

[@silviac221]

I think I have to say this here: a friend of mine was abused by her husband for 17 years: rape, verbal abuse... and endless list. With the help of her friends, she and her children were finally able to get away and she reported him to the police. He was arrested, tried and found guilty last July 5, and got the maximum sentence. This set a precedent in my country because many people still consider that if it happens with a married couple it's not abuse. But it is, of course. I was one of the witnesses and I can't really say that I'm happy because the whole thing is so horrible, but it's a relief: they have many years of a safe life ahead, to heal from the trauma as much as possible. And justice has been done. I wish it wasn't necesssary to go through all this, but at the same time I don't think this happened very frequently in the past. They just did it and got away with it.

[@hawkeye9793]

You have to hide that you're hurt when no one listens or helps.

[@subtlestrawberry3321]

@@hawkeye9793I’m late but please don’t. You may not help yourself but you could help others. See you in heaven in 60 yrs.

[@lindaa2437]

​@subtlestrawberry3321 I think that more people need to open up this conversation so that the light is shined on the frequency and trauma of domestic violence. Sadly in the US some battered individuals chose not to leave their abuser because the domestic violence shelters will not accept their pets. We need to believe, encourage and support those who are trying to escape abuse.💔

[@drkristophher]

Nothing "intimate" about abuse, never

[@sofapillow7660]

spotify had this in their "that warm fuzzy feeling playlist" oh no oh no

[@Mrreowmeowmrreowmrowmeow]

Lmao

[@suryanshshrivastava4681]

Yeah, it reminds me of those long breaths.... those quiet shrieks..... those times with my ex-wife.... that warm fuzzy feeling of blood on my hands...

[@ananyasahay]

tbf when i first heard it and didn't pay attention to the lyrics, it did make me feel warm and fuzzy lol

[@wongdc3993]

Its a relaxing song like u can play this with a guitar and sing it with ur friends or family near the campfire but the lyrics are sad

[@theultimatecatloverchannel9432]

That's why AI could never substitute human sensitivity. We humans are irrational and contradictory.

[@brandonrobinson8136]

Oh god, the fear in her eyes at 2:28 breaks my heart. She doesn’t know if he’ll kiss her or hit her. So touching.

[@imtheGAL04]

This is so true! Exactly what I felt when I saw her expression. You can really see how abuse has got into her deep. "The way she tells me I'm hers and she's mine." There's something convincing about how "she" tells me I'm hers and vice versa, despite the abuse along with the presence of affection some of the time.

[@PurtyPurple]

@Sainte Ofelia And that they'd "never do it again". They always do it again

[@Seizuresalade]

@Sainte Ofelia saying sorry doesn't fix the already done damage, what they should do is go therapy because it can fix the abuser's behaviour but the victim still may not heal from the trauma that fast. It takes years. But again, most abusers refuse to even entertain the thought that they're doing something wrong that needs working with.

[@yanca7657]

Is the fear with the sadness

[@abbyfrantz4448]

This made me cry, I just got out of an 6 yr relationship that was filled with violence. We have a child together. I loved him so much. He beat me regularly. I feel this accurately depicted the conflicted emotions attached to domestic violence. To love someone enough to allow them to abuse you. But I finally realized my love for him would never stop the cycle. There was nothing I could do because I wasn't the problem. It's been about 6 months since I got away and when I think about him breaking two of my ribs and then tenderly picking me up and taking me to the hospital, I get sick to my stomach. Thank you hozier for raising awareness for domestic violence. And for you beautiful song.

[@heidim9535]

I'm so glad you got out of that. No one should have to go through what you went through.

[@KMFDM781]

The reason I love this video......most TV and movies show the abuser as an asshole or monster all the time......the reality is that just like this video, abusers are often great, loving, funny, wonderful until they aren't. People say "how can you continue to be with someone who beats you up?" and they judge you, call you stupid or say you love the drama...but there's just so much more to it. You think about losing all the great, amazing times you have...throwing it all away because he slaps you around. You justify the bad parts with the good parts. It's rough. I'm glad you're out of that cycle.

[@haileyt857]

You're really brave for leaving, you know that? You're a survivor, and I wish you the best of luck on your journey to recovery.

[@lightituplikedynamite6030]

So proud of you 😘

[@abbiiON]

"when I think about him breaking two of my ribs and then tenderly picking me up and taking me to the hospital" holy shit, that was very powerful to read. I am legitimately proud of you, you are a brave, brave person.

[@devpanda8996]

[Verse 1] Her eyes and words are so icy Oh, but she burns Like rum on a fire Hot and fast and angry as she can be I walk my days on a wire [Pre-Chorus 1] It looks ugly, but it's clean Oh mama, don't fuss over me [Chorus] The way she tells me I'm hers and she is mine Open hand or closed fist would be fine The blood is rare and sweet as cherry wine [Verse 2] Calls of guilty thrown at me, all while she stains The sheets of some other Thrown at me so powerfully, just like she throws With the arm of her brother [Pre-Chorus 2] But I want it, it's a crime That she's not around most of the time [Chorus 2] The way she shows me I'm hers and she is mine Open hand or closed fist would be fine The blood is rare and sweet as cherry wine [Verse 3] Her fight and fury's fiery Oh, but she looks Like sleep to the freezing Sweet and right and merciful, I'm all but washed In the tide of her breathing [Pre-Chorus 3] And it's worth it, it's divine I have this some of the time [Chorus 2] The way she shows me I'm hers and she is mine Open hand or closed fist would be fine The blood is rare and sweet as cherry wine

[@sab2680]

'

[@MiddleClassMafia]

thank you

[@lordybelance3410]

Thanks

[@rohanmahakal8113]

Ty

[@MuusicXo]

To anyone complaining that the video isn't showing a man getting abused: The lyrics talk about a man getting abused, the video shows a woman getting abused. The whole point is to raise awareness about domestic violence in general, so why is everyone getting mad because because he isn't focusing on one gender? He is representing both male and females getting abused. I don't understand why people have a problem with this.

[@DrGregoryHouseIT]

+S Because domestic abuse is already so gendered male victims are way less likely to come forward, due to the myriad of stigmas and, due to the Duluth model, a very real possibility to be arrested as the aggressor, so to show a woman being abused by a man when the song is the opposite basically destroys the point of the song and upholds this really harmful gendering of the issue.

[@MuusicXo]

+Gregory House +Gregory House +Gregory House +Gregory House please educate yourself. While yes, domestic violence against men is under reported because of shame etc., most domestic violence against women is also not reported because the woman is both brainwashed and terrorised. Anyway, the point of the song is clearly to raise awareness around domestic violence, not domestic violence against a particular gender. Domestic violence is not a gender issue so stop making it one.

[@DrGregoryHouseIT]

S Yeah, but it's not really comparable; abuse against women is rightfully condemned by society, abuse against men is not. That's the 'gendering' issue. Just an example; Jezebel proudly supported domestic abuse, but since the abuse was supposed to be directed against men the site not only wasn't closed down, but kept on being praised as 'feminist' (more like 'using feminism to justify their awfulness). And having the one occasion in which female-on-male abuse could be portrayed turn into another male-on-female is pretty much gendering the issue. As I've already said, people will remember the music video way more than the song lyrics, which is why this video does more harm than good. Add to that the fact that portrayal of female-on-male violence and education of the possibility of such is pretty much non-existant, because apparently acknowledging that female-on-male abuse exists damages the entire issue and there you have it. I'm against domestic violence period; I don't get it why talking about both types invalidates the fact that they must be stopped somehow.

[@MuusicXo]

+Gregory House I don't think it's fair to say that abuse against men isn't condemned by society just because some radical blog supports it. Which is disgusting by the way. I'm not disagreeing that a lot more attention needs to be brought to abuse on males. What I'm saying is that A LOT more awareness ALSO still needs to be created around abuse against women because although people condemn the idea of it, they don't understand it which is a major problem and a big reason while abuse against women is so prevalent and under detected. That is what is so great about Hozier universalising the message. No one here is saying female on male abuse doesn't exist. As I have said, the lyrics clearly depict just that. You say that nobody listens to the words, but that is not the impression I get from all the comments complaining that the video doesn't match the lyrics.

[@carolinavanderlande4904]

I agree that there is not enough attention for men that are abused by women, but like S pointed out, the video addresses both abused woman AND men. Both sides are merged together, one visually and the other lyrically. A brilliant move in my opinion! It would have been strange to only address the issue of men being abused, since 90% of the victims are woman, so this is a perfect way to address the issue of domestic abuse, without limiting it to one gender being the victim. Remember that Hozier also did this with his video for Take me to Church; the visuals are about gay men, while the lyrics are about a relationship between a man and a woman. It's about violating human rights in general, not gender specific.

[@trinityredford1415]

This shot (2:24) is fascinating in the way that she is alone in the center and she has the two reflections looking back at the center. One reflection with darker light and showing her bruised eye and the other with light and clear. The two sides that complete her side of fhe relationship. Another thing is (and this is a stretch) the mirror and how you can adjust it to different angles to see what you want to see or simply close them and block it out. This is my interpretation, that's what makes art and music powerful to the artist and audience.

[@aribahussain2738]

So beautiful illustration indeed !

[@Luke101]

It’s called composition and that shot is absolutely beautiful. Filmmaking and symbolism at its finest

[@kaitlynlancaster4655]

The different angles idea I feel is carried along to the photograph of her with the baby as we only see the side which isn't currently bruised in it. The first shot reflects this shot with the mirrors too

[@smiralshah4838]

And at the end you see a shot of her reflection in the centre panel of the mirror, showing both the beautiful and the ugly side of their relationship. The way she pulls back her hair is, according to me, her realisation of how something beautiful became something so tragic.

[@utsgotnoguts]

Also if you see, there's lighter material(scarf maybe) in the darker side and heavier material(a bag) and the mirrors aren't aligned but tilted slightly to the heavier side showing that she wants to focus more on the brighter side and wants to save their relationship.

[@kaminik7603]

The fear in her eyes at 2:28, before he kisses her is just heartbreaking. It lasts a few seconds but it hurts. Haven't been moved by a music video like this, before.

[@billiey36]

Saoirse is wonderful in this. You can see her walking on a wire the whole way through.

[@ForeverFashionGirl21]

it's cause the way he grabs her could be in a way that he could be getting ready to hit her or kiss her- she has no idea and thus the fear is real.

[@Karlsteins]

Yeah cause she’s an academy award nominee,that was kind of acting that could delivered by oscar worthy actress.You better watch lady bird movie if you want to see how oustanding her perfomance was.

[@mgaydos8]

If it's fear, it's not fear of violence. It looks more like sadness to me. It almost looks like she's scared for him. That he would see what he's done and be sad because of it.

[@gabbymooon]

i just noticed that and teared up holy shit

[@enpenguin4776]

When I learned that the line-- "It looks ugly, but it's clean Oh, mama don't fuss over me" depicts to when his mother notices the physical marks of abuse saying the wounds are ugly but it's clean (already disinfected) --I was at a loss

[@MegaSpideyman]

I never noticed that before.

[@avivastudios2311]

Thank you, I had no idea what that line meant. This song is very poetic but the condensed language it uses is hard to understand.

[@alexoubinavillanueva5387]

I don't think the line is meant to be taken literally. I've always thought "the relationship looks ugly, but it's clean", showing how a victim of abuse defends their relationship arguing that other people will just see the wounds, but not the "pretty parts", exactly what's depicted on the video. Unfortunately it's not rare for a victim of abuse to not realize they are being abused until a lot of time later, and in many occasions, just because EVERYBODY around them tells them they are.

[@Anime-dr9zf]

I love how at 0:53 it goes "but it's clean" and it shows her cleaning her makeup off and then at 1:06 "open hand" his hands are open then 1:07 "closed fist" his closes his hands into fists then at 1:16 "cherry wine" she drinks her wine. Its such a detail music video and it gets me every time.

[@fitrisyfiqca173]

yupp indeed. thanks for the timeline btw.. so on point!

[@elysium11th46]

It's wonderful when someone or yourself notices this subtle details. That's one of the beauties in the world of art. I love to discover this things in any form of art. It's like following a treasure map to some magical world of the senses.

[@suzannew4840]

Okay the fact that I thought this was a sweet love song is kind of disturbing. But oh damn, this artist is a poet rare to be found. So glad I get to listen to his music.

[@idontneedaname318]

it's representative of abusive relationships. some ppl get caught up in them thinking they're loving and sweet but really it's twisted and abusive

[@springtreats9509]

Blackbird loves bands Cherry wine is bittersweet

[@nemviquem]

This man is the closest thing to God i've ever felt in my life.

[@hrodvithit]

Damien Rice also had a habit of writing songs about how he abused his relationships, and still managed to make them so beautiful.

[@dualkelly]

technically the song can be about whatever you interpret. poetry and music may have an original meaning that the author is trying to portray however the beauty of poetry is that the reader creates new meanings. so sure this could be about an abusive relationship for the author but for you it could be about something else. no one can tell you that your meaning of the song is wrong.

[@sandib3793]

It’s been 15 years since I got out.. alive somehow. I still get a racing heart and the feeling of ice in my blood if someone raises their voice (or hands) or moves quickly around me. Even after counselling etc and so many years ...I am still trying to feel complete. Each day one small step forward..... You are a survivor after if you're lucky, but you are changed forever.

[@sagewidder510]

I don't know what you've been through, but I hope that even at the worst times you can find the courage to keep going and keep being strong. Even though you can't get back the time that's been lost and you will always carry your hurt with you, there are good people and you will find people who treat you as well as you deserve, whether in romantic relationships or in friendships.

[@abbconstructionwelding407]

My daughter asked me to listen to this song today and it brought back memories that I wish they can just banish forever. The abuse is part of what is left of us 3 1/2 years free from my abuser.

[@bkwskiflwrs3302]

You're strong. You can move on to the beautiful place you deserve. Thank u for sharing.

[@ishaniisha507]

I know i still flinch. I wasn’t abused but i saw a lot of domestic violence I don’t know if it fucks you up or not but regardless here i am.

[@mariagriffin2221]

It’s an exaggerated startle response.

[@alexandralily]

I used to love this song. It’s so different listening to it now after being in a relationship with domestic violence. It’s like a drug. He hurt me so much but those little moment where I just got to lay in his arms and looks him and feel loved….I felt like it was all worth it. That the price for love was pain. Idk how someone I love so much could hurt me so badly. I’ll never understand. Getting free is the only way.

[@joyegreg]

"It's worth it, it's divine, that I have this some of the time." Yes, I recognized that bargain. Sending you strength.

[@armadillo6034]

Felt. I never heard a song that portrays this feeling so accurately. The fake bliss of lying in the arms of somebody who just hurt you, the apologies whispered in your ears...This song is simultaneously triggering and healing my PTSD. Stay safe

[@tym6245]

@@Bubbles_Utoniumbe strong , be safe.

[@alejandrinahs]

Just silently tearing up in the middle of my work floor.

[@shwetaroy05]

Hi @alexandralily hope you're doing fine.. the song is addictive and it sends a message. It's a voice for many.. These moments cannot be something we cling ourselves to for a better tomorrow. Those who hurt us, they know they have made the mistake but yet chose to keep doing it. So there's only one way to end this cycle of abuse of physical or mental trauma, we take back the power we gave them, which they only misused.. I hope you find the strength to walk away and be happy. Let us love ourselves. Sending strength and love.

[@Catellana]

Saoirse's acting is so raw and beautiful. She gives this video the power and yet helplessness that the lyrics try to evoke.

[@basavmusic]

Catellana she is an amazing actress

[@alisakhuu9425]

I hadn't realized it before but if you look at the lyrics, It's kind of obvious that this song is about domestic abuse. "Hot and fast and angry as she can be. I walk my days on a wire" describes how there's always the constant fear of his partner going off in a fit of anger. "It looks ugly, but it's clean. Oh, mamma, don't fuss over me" refers to how many victims of domestic abuse refuse to get help and deny that they are being abused. "The way she tells me I'm hers and she is mine." this especially talks about how the abuser is usually very loving to the victim when they aren't being abusive assholes. It's their way of getting the victims to stay with them. Because the victims to actually love them and fall in love with the gentle persona and then don't want to leave. "Open hand or closed fist would be fine. The blood is rare and sweet as cherry wine" means that they accept the abuse (for previously mentioned reasons) and sometimes fail to see what is wrong with the relationship. "Calls of guilty thrown at me all while she stains the sheets of some other. Thrown at me so powerfully just like she throws with the arm of her brother" god this one gets to me. There're more mentions of physical abuse but then here it also mentions how his partner is also very verbally abusive. Yet, to top it all off, his partner is also cheating on him with someone else. "But I want it, it's a crime that she's not around most of the time" as i previously said, he genuinely loves his partner (even if she doesn't love him) and god, if that doesn't break your heart. "And it's worth it, it's divine. I have this some of the time" god I hate this line. It basically says how he reasons that the good times are worth the abuse and just....I can't. This song just gets to me.

[@ParanormalPursuits]

Alisa Khuu I think the most poignant line in this song is 'She loves like sleep to the freezing.' Someone who is freezing is going to feel relief and peace when sleep sets in but ultimately falling asleep while freezing can kill you, just as someone being abused is going to feel something positive from their abusive relationship, even though it may eventually kill them.

[@jnirgudkar1]

perfect...

[@MrsBrightside8792]

"it's a crime that she's not around most of the time" as well as "it's divine that I have this some of the time" describe how he wants her , the loving and caring one inside her, to be there most of the time, yet he settles with having her just some of the time, while the rest of the time is the abusive one who is with him, he loves her so much that a little bit of good times are better for him than just not having her at all.

[@Tarotlynx]

Remember, the battered partner often comes to feel controlled by their abuser. When you are told you are worthless and deserving of being beaten constantly, eventually, you do believe it. And later on, a form of masochism develops, where the abuse feels normal, almost even slightly pleasurable compared to the danger of breaking the relationship and getting free. This is not a good thing, but it is part of the process.

[@mbs811]

Alisa Khuu Thank you so much for sharing that incredible analyis. It gives so many layers of meaning to the beautiful poetry ❤

[@rezadezlopez4467]

The craziest thing is, one would never imagine that they would allow themselves to be in a situation like this. But once you're in it, the love you have for that person somehow dominates the fear they've instilled in you and although you know that this isn't how love should be, you can't convince yourself to leave and try to reason why you should stay with them. The best analogy I can think of is the dog being beat by its owner and yet it still craves that owners love and affection and is beyond happy when he/she receives it. Hey everyone, thank you for all of the likes, if anyone is in a abusive relationship I hope you stay strong and find the courage within yourself to get out of it.. on another note, I'm really worried about @mishi144, if you see this, I really hope you're okay..

[@hazelmanayan9714]

Now, this is so mean.... But in a good way 🙁🙁 that hit hard.

[@DeniseSantos-qe5ee]

Omg that's so true

[@pfor_potato]

That's literally the scariest shit ever

[@Funky_Kong69]

Good analogy.

[@sandib3793]

Not leaving is also the result of knowing that when they tell you that they'll find you and kill you... You know that it's true. And you believe them. You have almost died in their hands before .. it's the preservation of life and losing your identity at the same time. It's so much more than needing love.

[@kashpursingh4211]

I have a feeling that the reason only half of the woman's face is bruised is to show the two sides of the relationship: the loving and the abusive. She's conflicted whether or not she should leave because, as the lyrics say, the relationship teeters on a line between abuse and love that you can't find anywhere else. It's too good to throw out the window and she'd rather endure all the pain of domestic violence just to be with the person she loves.

[@theosuguitan4511]

Oh my god if this was true I would fucking love this video so much

[@CoffeeD_1]

Dickybutt McPoopyPants Dickybutt McPoopyPants I’d think so. The cinematographer in the end shows only the good half of the face as his loving side comes out, but as she is crying we can see her eye again. At 2:24 she sits in front of a three sided mirror, each one showing a different side of her face. It seems very intentional.

[@jpmcc7302]

@@CoffeeD_1 people that hit their other half dont have a loving side, just another way of manipulating them... imo

[@sinonslife4812]

Thats a one sided love, u could never hurt the one you love

[@isadoravieytes968]

Yes! In 2:23 you can see the two sides on the mirror

[@vsavath]

As much as I love how Hozier can create such a soft but tragic song to spread awareness about domestic abuse I really hope Hozier himself hasn't had to face violent abuse in his relationships. He seems like one of the few musicians today that are so insightful and overall pleasant in general (obviously I don't personally know him but I can usually just feel when someone is a decent person.) I've been a fan since I was 13 and I truly love him so much, he deserves happiness and all the best! 💖

[@TehPompkinHead]

If he hasn't personally he's certainly known people close to him who have, I don't doubt that for a second. Or he has so much awareness and compassion he's able to understand...

[@anfearaerach]

@@TehPompkinHead unfortunately DA is a big issue in Ireland, yeah. Due to generational trauma, often with alcohol abuse, this is a story too many people have.

[@TehPompkinHead]

@@anfearaerach I don't doubt that for a second honestly

[@ashleypalmer6545]

I mean, across all of his music, he touches so many times on topics that, if you know, you know. This man has absolutely had an abusive partner. No one, not even Hozier, can be that acutely aware of another person’s point of view. There is no way he hasn’t.

[@The_Etchaleon]

SADDIE

[@dhiibvulk9036]

the way she touches her wrist in the start.. how when she's with him she's almost always turned to the side where there's no bruise... the fear in her eyes... the picture of her with the baby... the way she touches the bruise.... gods, it's all so subtle but it's so heartbreaking. I don't know what's worse, the lyrics or the video...

[@maggiepie765]

I’ve seen this mv a bunch of times and just as now - watching again - first time I noticed hand marks turned to bruises on her arms too T_T

[@Atrasimi]

I feel wrong being relaxed by such a sad song....

[@MikeIsNexciting]

It's often the saddest songs, with the most relaxing/positive energy coming from them

[@doci6139]

me too

[@seok.qt23]

Taylor Dunaway same

[@devvasu1412]

It helps relate to the pain and gives comfort. That's why.

[@nari8043]

Taylor Dunaway you & me both

[@yanca7657]

First time: feel the lyrics Second time: admire saoirse's acting

[@sarastro84]

Third time. Admire Moe Dunfords

[@renewannewithaneplease5546]

4th time: will kill anyone who'll do this to Saoirse

[@morris3123]

"but i want it, it's a crime that she's not around most of the time" it's like a comfort line that feels like he's safe and sound when she's with some other, oh ghad i love this song. there's a lot of possible meanings and different interpretation, hozier is so poetic...

[@avivastudios2311]

That line almost sounded like he was going to rape her. Like he was an abuser too. I was a little confused.

[@illuminaticonfirmed1389]

@@avivastudios2311i think it means when abuse victims get so used to the abuse that they find any way to cope, even if it means convincing themselves that they want or deserve the abuse

[@adammatthews2377]

hozier's lyricism is unparalleled

[@jalilpettiford7195]

Tom and jarry

[@Lilygardener12]

I agree

[@Techs-ot2yu]

Bon Iver

[@dwaipayanbasu3246]

The National

[@mamoon7049]

as a modern young artist,sure,but there have been far greater singer songwriters

[@skibbos]

the fact that he covers her swollen eye with her hair after he kisses her..... he didn’t even want to acknowledge what he did. both of them are amazing actors.

[@christianaseyi]

Couldn’t find the lyrics person so here: Her eyes and words are so icy Oh but she burns like rum on the fire Hot and fast and angry as she can be I walk my days on a wire it looks ugly, but it's clean Oh momma, don't fuss over me The way she tells me l'm hers and she is mine Open hand or close fist would be fine The blood is red and sweet as cherry wine Calls of guilty thrown at me All while she stains The sheets of some other Thrown at me so powerfully Just like she throws with the arm of her brother But I want it, it's a crime That she's not around most of the time The way she shows me I'm hers and she is mine Open hand or closed fist would be fine The blood is red and sweet as cherry wine Her fight and fury is fiery Oh but she loves like sleep to the freezing Sweet and right and merciful I'm all but washed in the tide of her breathing And it's worth it, it's divine And I have this some of the time The way she shows me I'm hers and she is mine Open hand or closed fist would be fine The blood is red and sweet as cherry wine

[@mousuminandi3640]

Oh my god thank you so much bless your heart dear

[@sapinhobrabo1988]

Vlw Chris

[@kloxzp]

thanks, luv

[@anonymouseve]

There isn’t any singer out there able to cover this song even semi-decently. Andrew nails it with the rhythmic cadence and subtlest of nuances in his voice, and perfectly captures the *aching* and *longing* for a love that feels like home. Trauma bonds feel like a severe addiction to a bad drug that you just CANNOT do without, and that slowly takes everything away from you. So the trauma bonded lover is stuck constantly recreating the push-pull, kiss-slap, open-hand/closed-fist of his childhood environment. It’s a real Tantalus hell, the cycle of withdrawal and euphoria. If only they were wired to receive healthy love- love that is predictable, stable, and nourishing in its kindness and faithfulness.

[@nyambura8090]

The way he says 'divine' (about 3:01 ish) just cleared my acne and raised my grades.

[@blueschild61]

When was the last time you heard a musician on the radio that you could also call a poet? Every time I hear Hozier I tell everybody else to shut up. So I can do my best to absorb it.

[@garrettgrenert2570]

weirdo

[@casskreie7697]

Twenty One Pilots and Mary Lambert are both really great ones too.

[@stefaniapusu6175]

blueslove61 Adele all the way

[@kavtoM]

Laura Marling also has beautiful lyrics

[@tanmaysingh9974]

steven wilson all the way

[@akoosiinhel]

Her eyes and words are so icy Oh but she burns Like rum on the fire Hot and fast and angry as she can be I walk my days on a wire. It looks ugly, but it's clean, Oh momma, don't fuss over me. The way she tells me I'm hers and she is mine Open hand or closed fist would be fine The blood is rare and sweet as cherry wine. Calls of guilty thrown at me All while she stains The sheets of some other Thrown at me so powerfully Just like she throws with the arm of her brother. But I want it It's a crime That she's not around most of the time. The way she shows me I'm hers and she is mine Open hand or closed fist would be fine Blood is rare and sweet as cherry wine. Her fight and fury is fiery Oh but she loves Like sleep to the freezing Sweet and right and merciful I'm all but washed In the tide of her breathing. And it's worth it, it's divine I have this some of the time. The way she shows me I'm hers and she is mine Open hand or closed fist would be fine The blood is rare and sweet as cherry wine.

[@nishat3387]

thank you 🌻

[@-__-sacriliago9882]

God it’s such a beautiful song... gives me chills

[@michellemaravillo9155]

godsent

[@ross8534]

Thank you :)

[@brandijones57]

The feeling of looking at yourself in the mirror as you’re bruised. He fully captured it in this video.

[@whengrapespop5728]

He made the song, not the video.

[@emilycarwood2761]

how have I never actually LISTENED to the lyrics, man I'm crying

[@tomboy5159]

YO SAME WTF

[@abdullahsajidismail4174]

loser

[@miley4329]

@@abdullahsajidismail4174 have you got nothing better to do than calling people losers on the internet? i'm sure you do

[@tonym3309]

@@miley4329 probably hasn't.

[@bob-xr2rk]

SAME - i had this on my in love playlist 😭

[@anisgramez4056]

Her eyes and words are so icy Oh but she burns Like rum on a fire Hot and fast and angry As she can be I walk my days on a wire It looks ugly, but it's clean Oh mamma, don't fuss over me [Chorus:] The way she tells me I'm hers and she is mine Open hand or closed fist would be fine The blood is rare and sweet as cherry wine Calls of guilty thrown at me All while she stains The sheets of some other Thrown at me so powerfully Just like she throws with the arm of her brother But I want it, it's a crime That she's not around most of the time [Chorus:] Way she tells me I'm hers and she is mine Open hand or closed fist would be fine The blood is rare and sweet as cherry wine Her fight and fury is fiery Oh but she loves Like sleep to the freezing Sweet and right and merciful I'm all but washed In the tide of her breathing And it's worth it, it's divine I have this some of the time [Chorus:] Way she shows me I'm hers and she is mine Open hand or closed fist would be fine The blood is rare and sweet as cherry wine

[@emmanuelrubio2535]

😗👌

[@kamakazi1212]

What a sad song. Sounds great, of course, because Hozier is singing.

[@Mulaidarikecil]

+Kelvin Wu wow

[@MultiEpicRANDOM]

the first few lyrics of the song, remind me of another song, like the way he sings it and now my mind is all fuckled cuz im trying to find the song with the similar way its sung. you have any ideas on what the song might be?

[@dylantobin7661]

+MultiDoesNothing could it be carol king he hit me and it felt like a kiss that was inspiration for cherry wine

[@hustlelady1642]

Walk away darling, Walk away. There is a fresh breeze outside, Waiting to carry you somewhere safe.

[@blancavee5250]

😢💔👍

[@dzo...]

where’s that from ?

[@Lilas4444]

It’s beautiful, thank you

[@razileeligaray7207]

The world needs to get better at providing safe places. 🌍

[@tangerinedream7488]

This made me cry. Thank you.

[@lindabentley7624]

Lyrics: Her eyes and words are so icy Oh but she burns Like rum on the fire Hot and fast and angry as she can be I walk my days on a wire It looks ugly, but it's clean Oh momma, don't fuss over me The way she tells me I'm hers and she is mine Open hand or closed fist would be fine The blood is rare and sweet as cherry wine Calls of guilty thrown at me All while she stains The sheets of some other Thrown at me so powerfully Just like she throws with the arm of her brother But I want it It's a crime That she's not around most of the time The way she shows me I'm hers and she is mine Open hand or closed fist would be fine Blood is rare and sweet as cherry wine Her fight and fury is fiery Oh but she loves Like sleep to the freezing Sweet and right and merciful I'm all but washed In the tide of her breathing And it's worth it, it's divine I have this some of the time The way she shows me I'm hers and she is mine Open hand or closed fist would be fine The blood is rare and sweet as cherry wine

[@Poutinevillee]

I just wanna add to my fellow emotionally abused victims out there who are still going through or who has been through it. your scars may not be visible to the naked eye but ik it's there and they are just as valid. don't ever let anyone tell you it's not. emotional abusers should not get a pass just because they never laid a hand on you. abuse is abuse.

[@alexrose20]

why doesn't this have more likes?

[@kloxzp]

thank you

[@AmyAberrant]

Thank you!

[@frogluvrfr]

thank you

[@kenzaafnoukh3905]

Thank you. I hope you are okay

[@c2e.7877]

I literally cried. Not because of abuse on my own. I thought about my lovely mother, my angel. I can't imagine the abuse she went through with her first husband, who thank fuck ain't my father and neither did I ever met him. Poor family, my young and beautiful mom, her husband who is secretly a demon. He would kick her with his feet until he thought she died. Then he would put water on her to wake her up. He was alcoholic and even abused his own mother. My mom got pregnant with two kids, the first one she aborted, the second one died in her stomach. I was born 10 years after the second one. She is way too good for me, I am extremely grateful and lucky for calling this godlike woman my mother, my everything. I still cry a lot while I wrote this comment. I love you mama, more than anything else in the world.❤

[@allonatabris8150]

Now I'm crying too. I'm so sorry that happened to your mother and I'm glad to hear she had a happier life after

[@skaterboyvega]

lots of love to you and your mom

[@c2e.7877]

@@allonatabris8150 Thank you.❤

[@c2e.7877]

@@skaterboyvega Thank you.💜

[@c2e.7877]

Jesus, I didn't knew how much recognition this comment got. Haven't listened to him in a while, I cry again.

[@mia-cn8hw]

I have watched this a million times but I just noticed at 2:54 that the man covered her bruised eye with her hair. Just like any other abusive person, they always refuse to acknowledge the abuse that they’ve done. Really love this song. 5/29 Listening to this during quaratine, I hope everyones safe. Not just from covid but from all other kinds of abuse.

[@arcanesereinrides]

I don't know why there's so many likes but no comment agreeing you

[@sirimaringanti8932]

Thank you so much for noticing this!

[@TennesseeHodl]

That moment drives home the whole point of the video imo amazing work really

[@sabel9841]

I also love that at the end she sweeps back her hair, displaying her bruised eye. It shows acknowledgement of how unhealthy the relationship is, just like what is in the lyrics.

[@onestepinc.9921]

While at 1:35 he uncovers it

[@YourLittleBluebird]

Listening to Hozier makes me want to get twelve tattoos all at once.

[@emosewa4248]

I love this comment so much

[@ghofranmediouni1272]

💖💖💖💖💖

[@emosewa4248]

+8-BitCow it's perfect for inner suicide of heart after a break up.

[@ReneHernandez-qf7xf]

loved it from the begginng its a bitter sweet❤❤😜

[@casswalters4011]

YourLittleBluebird same😏

[@melztunes]

Him covering her black eye with her hair so he didn't have to face up to what he'd done to the person he 'loves', and playing it off as romantic absolutely FILLED me with rage.

[@melli369]

We accept the love we think we deserve 😢

[@youtubecommentor1338]

- Love always, Charlie!!

[@the3ambreeze]

Perks of being a wallflower eh :,(

[@youtubecommentor1338]

@@the3ambreeze u can hardly call'em perks

[@the3ambreeze]

Aye my bad I guess :')

[@rineenasheed976]

We can let them know they deserve better.

[@rhynhardtvanoordt5878]

This goes so deep into what victims of abusive relationships experience. Not just the abuse, but the psychological hold that person has over them. At the same time not realising that they deserve better, this song utterly breaks my heart.

[@giantsalsa3977]

If you notice, at 0:12 when she’s rubbing one of her wrists which has a bracelet on it, the other wrist has grab-marks on it like someone clenched their first around her wrist so hard their fingers left an impression.

[@lisacrandall409]

well spotted!

[@ParkourOverdose]

Forever my favorite Hozier song

[@UnknownAjax]

Okay, I NEVER post comments on KZbin but this song is so deep, rich and thought-provoking I had to. I love dissecting a good lyric so here’s my take on the meaning of this song and some of its layers. “Her eyes and words are so icy Oh but she burns Like rum on the fire” She can be cold as ice to him or raging and hot-tempered - she’s unpredictable and volatile. There’s a hint it’s alcohol-related, too, maybe drunken rages, with the reference to rum on the fire. “Hot and fast and angry as she can be I walk my days on a wire.” This volatility means he always has to be careful around her, never wanting to set her off. “It looks ugly, but it's clean, Oh momma, don't fuss over me.” The physical wound he’s received from her looks bad, but it’s not infected - it’s clean - so it’s no big deal. He’s minimizing the physical injuries he’s receiving. “The way she tells me I'm hers and she’s mine Open hand or closed fist would be fine The blood is rare and sweet as cherry wine.” She can still be sweet, and talks about their love for one another, so he excuses the occasional violence - “the blood is rare” - whether it be a slap or a punch: “open hand or closed fist”. “Calls of guilty thrown at me All while she stains The sheets of some other” This verse expands on the physical violence covered already with some psychological abuse - she is hypocritical and cheating on him even while acting jealous of him and suspecting him of cheating on her. Presumably she’s judging him by the same standard as the way she is acting herself, though he’s innocent. “Thrown at me so powerfully Just like she throws with the arm of her brother.” This line makes me wonder if she herself has suffered some abuse at the hands of her brother growing up (especially after reading “Educated” by Tara Westover a while ago). If she’s experienced abuse herself she might be acting this way in her relationships with others - helps us to understand if not excuse her behaviour. “But I want it It's a crime That she's not around most of the time.” Despite her awful behaviour, he still wants to be with her, and the irony is he calls her absence a crime, while overlooking and minimizing her ACTUAL criminal behaviour (the violence and abuse). “The way she shows me I'm hers and she’s mine Open hand or closed fist would be fine Blood is rare and sweet as cherry wine.” I’ve heard some people comment how an abused person can start to see the abuse as a sign the abuser loves them - the strength of the insults/hits shows how deeply they care, in this twisted interpretation, so the abuse itself becomes a sign of the “love” of the abuser. “Her fight and fury is fiery Oh but she loves Like sleep to the freezing” Again the juxtaposition of hot and cold, and the picture of someone frozen - all they want is to sleep, but of course that sleep will be deadly to them. In the same way the abused person desires the love of the abuser. “Sweet and right and merciful I'm all but washed In the tide of her breathing.” Carrying on the picture of sleeping - now it seems to be her that’s sleeping, and she is at her most calm and peaceful - it’s probably easy to love and forgive her right now. It seems, though, perversely, that HE’S the one who’s feeling forgiven, and is grateful for it. I think he’s calling her/her love “sweet and right and merciful” - she’s merciful for forgiving HIM for his misdeeds - and “I’m all but washed” - again seems to be a picture of him being (nearly) cleansed. I think this is hinting at how the abused person feels the abuse is THEIR fault and the abuser is being kind to them by forgiving them and staying with them. Rather than recognising that it is the abuser who is in the wrong and the abuser should be the one seeking forgiveness. “And it's worth it, it's divine I have this some of the time.” And this love seems to be worth it to him. The occasional, wonderful times outweigh the bad, in his mind. So, at least in the song, there’s no hint of trying to leave or even wanting to. So powerful and sad.

[@thatb1h855]

UnknownAjax i disagree with the “excuse it” part. there is no reason you should excuse her abuse, just as you wouldn’t’t excuse a man’s abuse. it will help us understand why, yes, but never “excuse.”

[@OkieDokiLoki]

@@thatb1h855 I think they meant he is trying to downplay it, or use it as an excuse for her abuse. Like, from his perspective her potential abuse would be the excuse for her behavior.

[@thatb1h855]

Loki Lockheart they literally said “excuse her behaviour.” her abuse at the hands of her brother may help us understand her mindset, but never will it allow us to excuse her behaviour.

[@-sep7684]

UnknownAjax I love your explanation,thank you!! Now this beautiful song has much more sense for me and how great songwriter is Hozier??

[@morgiana111]

Love this breakdown of the lyrics 💖

[@fishfinnvods]

On TikTok people are posting about their wedding or partner with this song and are meaning it to be romantic and I just....

[@al3xa723]

Yea... Jeez

[@theultimatecatloverchannel9432]

maybe they don't speak English

[@ar-jhayimbuido4261]

@@al3xa723 is

[@wongdc3993]

Well ones a wise man says "listening to the melody makes you happy but listening to the lyrics is sad"

[@leliuliana]

@@wongdc3993 true

[@mackenzielargent3486]

This is one of those songs you listen to on repeat until you hate music.

[@camilleesteves9352]

Mackenzie Largent the fact is I still don't hate this song

[@-belue-6697]

Mackenzie Largent...Now THAT'S me with music for real! 😂😎😍🎃🤗✌️🖖🤘🙏🏽

[@skyeskelter]

Except you just end up loving music even more each time you press repeat

[@Barbara_Strauss]

Because when you're in it, it still feels like love even if it's not healthy

[@emmaplocharsky9882]

2:18 all through out she looks like she’s on the brink of tears, and then as he comes over you can see the pure dread and fear in her eyes. Absolutely phenomenal acting, and beautifully written lyrics as well. Hozier, you never cease to amaze me.

[@Mintyygal]

Yeah that scene.. just so scared to love again

[@xsomili5501]

Im a simple lady, i see Saoirse Ronan i click

[@iunasolarcanudas7850]

same

[@cateeshkitty9664]

鹿鹿梦 haha I saw a similar comment for eternal sunshine but a man said it

[@lovelaced922]

same

[@fitrisyfiqca173]

sameeeee

[@xsomili5501]

@@cateeshkitty9664 haha i see

[@vm131mmmmmmm13]

I remember hearing this live and violently sobbing uncontrollably. It took over me I didn’t expect such a visceral and raw reaction from myself. It was this deep hidden pain I couldn’t breath , this song is everything to me

[@oliviam12345]

Where my Saoirse Ronan fans at??

[@AdrianoMartinov]

Right here :D

[@effienyanong82]

Here!

[@uhrrrrrangels]

Olivia Mendralla since britanny in atonement !

[@RainingCold]

Always cool to see her around.

[@29films29]

Hi

[@MariahMonique]

wow, I didn't realize how deep this song actually was. I've been singing it all along, and didn't even know the real meaning till I read the lyrics

[@aftonkalous8558]

+Mariah Monique OMG same

[@redonerolling5615]

+Mariah Monique yeah same i actually thought it was sweet.

[@erin23luck]

same:( the song sounded so sweet

[@cmelanso3371]

+Mariah Monique same here ive heard it dozens of times and thought it was so sweet. never really knew what the lyrics were actually saying. how wonderful are music videos that put the art into form

[@Habopolis]

Me too! Now I feel stupid. It's like, abuse is hidden behind closed doors where everything sounds fine. Kind of like this song's message.

I love this song so much. How it sounds so sweet, yet it's so not like that at all. Just like the relationships that are on this situation.

[@momowowo16]

That's deep

[@aquastar66]

Usually it's a lie that abused spouses make themselves view all the while they suffer at the hands of someone they trust and love.

[@ninanile]

Wow...🔥🔥🔥 I wrote a poem called For Better or Worse 🌬💞 by ninanile. Please review it on my channel. I'd truly appreciate it :')

[@bretmanfan]

After 7 years, it's still my favourite song. It's magical. I can never get tired of it. Time flies. I feel nostalgic whenever I listen to it.

[@S_R_B-b9l]

So many comments arguing over who is abused more: men or women? I say, does it matter?? Abuse is abuse, regardless of who initiated it or who it’s hurting. A better argument is WHY IS ABUSE STILL HAPPENING and how can we stop it?

[@lizziethompson4131]

THANK YOU

[@paulakandor9564]

HONESTLY THE ISSUE IS THAT THIS IS SOMEONE REALITY

[@bruhitslena4737]

Thank you for saying this like why does it have to be a competition

[@lizziethompson4131]

@@bruhitslena4737 I know! I was watching a video about it and realized that like, 1/3 of the reason none of these problems are getting solved is because we're constantly fighting over who's more oppressed instead of trying to fix the damn thing we're fighting over

[@natedog2014]

Issue is women on men abuse isn't taken seriously, this song originally written from that standpoint had a fantastic platform to bring awareness and yet the music video only shows a woman being abused. That's the issue, it's not about who gets abused more but it's to bring awareness to a situation that society almost sees as a joke.

[@lorelig]

Hozier get out from your beautiful spanish moss forest dwelling and give us a new album I'm begging you

[@user-im1jq3lw2l]

Loreli G and then Hozier said “it shall be done.”

[@crossyeyedcent]

YES PREACH.

[@alexanbroussard]

He is a faere prince and only comes out when he is needed or it suits him

[@edgargonzalez9826]

Movement is his new song, check it out!

[@aliakbar2678]

LITERALLY 2 WEEKS AWAY!! IM SO EXCITED

[@thewanderingguru4097]

Getting hit sucks. I’m a guy and I got hit. It hurts deep. This song helps. Thanks to everyone who helped bring it to the world.

[@hiyabarai617]

I'm really sorry that happened to you. I hope you're out of that situation now

[@cozywalrus7175]

I hope you're ok now

[@missymanuel8717]

Feel better dude

[@virginiaviola5097]

I always say, unless a man has gotten king hit by a person a foot taller, 40lb heavier and twice as strong, then he can’t know how if feels to be hit by a man as a woman. You’ve no idea how much we victims and survivors of abuse need men to stand up and speak for us. The types of men who abuse are the types of men who continue to attack, I cop it all the time online, when women try to get heard. We’re still being abused every time we try to speak up to society.

[@thewanderingguru4097]

First, thanks to everyone's kind words. I am really grateful to everyone that's left kind words for me. I wanted to say I'm doing better. I also wanted to reply to @Virginia viola because while I agree with most of what you said I also found your words painful. Virginia, I hear what you're saying and I agree. Men are much more likely to hit and hurt women. Women are much more likely to suffer serious injury or death. We need to listen to these women and help them. They deserve our attention. In fact, no one deserves to be physically or psychologically abused. Even though I'm 170 and she was 120 it still hurt a lot when the mother of my child and someone I loved deeply would hit me, make me feel worthless, and grind me down to the point where I felt like the world might be better off without me. Once you feel that way then the hitting starts to feel good like you deserve it (sweet like cherry wine). Thats where the real pain comes from for me. I still get nightmares and there are days I still feel utterly worthless but it has gotten better over the past five years because I've faced what I went through and other people helped me acknowledge and work through what happened. I think thats why this song is so important to me and I felt like leaving a message here. The acknowledgement of pain is really a powerful thing and denying that acknowledgement is really hurtful. I want everyone to be heard. My pain does not make less anyone else's. I hope we can all listen to each other here and help support each other. Love to all of you.

[@nikhilradhakrishnan2352]

Hozier has such depth and intensity in his songs. It's like he feels the pain while singing.

[@stacyknight4772]

"Cherry Wine" Her eyes and words are so icy Oh but she burns Like rum on a fire Hot and fast and angry As she can be I walk my days on a wire It looks ugly, but it's clean Oh mamma, don't fuss over me [Chorus:] The way she tells me I'm hers and she is mine Open hand or closed fist would be fine The blood is rare and sweet as cherry wine Calls of guilty thrown at me All while she stains The sheets of some other Thrown at me so powerfully Just like she throws with the arm of her brother But I want it, it's a crime That she's not around most of the time [Chorus:] Way she shows me I'm hers and she is mine Open hand or closed fist would be fine The blood is rare and sweet as cherry wine Her fight and fury is fiery Oh but she loves Like sleep to the freezing Sweet and right and merciful I'm all but washed In the tide of her breathing And it's worth it, it's divine I have this some of the time [Chorus:] Way she shows me I'm hers and she is mine Open hand or closed fist would be fine The blood is rare and sweet as cherry wine

[@pickles7783]

Is this to help folk without an internet connection? Duh...

[@carologic_]

+Pickles it's for folks who are using the app

[@farhanlabib7375]

+Caroline Parra exactly

[@AnneMarie22280]

V

[@ivorytypebeat1663]

Stacy Knight s

[@turkeykiller38]

Sometimes the need to be loved by someone means you forget that you are important. Real love is never about pain.

[@emmajohn1546]

such a powerful message. It's rare that artists these days actually have something meaningful to say, but every single one of Hozier's songs actually have substance

[@sweetesttemptation22]

I remember when my ex husband sung this song to me and I was in shock. I was like “I never put my hands on you!” He was like no, it’s a romantic song. I had to repeat the words he sang back to me and his face was like😮smh.

[@avivastudios2311]

😅 Must have been so awkward.

[@janeydoe901]

The most accurate and without vulgar stereotypes video about domestic abuse I've ever seen. I believe it captures very well the victim's side.

[@arunabhaniyogi5995]

the way she stares right at you in the end, you can tell that Saoirse Ronan is phenomenal, the way she transcends all mediums and makes you feel her pain and her agony. This is such an underappreciated piece of art

[@apathysatragedy3114]

This video portrays the mind fuck that abuse is so clearly and poetically. How the woman touches her wrists and the faint bruises on them. The mirror with three panels. The symbology of the left side of the woman's face being hidden in the beginning, how it is slowly revealed throughout the video, her face falling when he pulls her hair aside ( 1:35 ), her pulling her hair to the side at the end to reveal the truth. The right side of her face is clear and beautiful while the left is marred (the right being the love in the relationship and the left being the abuse that plays out/is revealed over time). Him going for the wine on the mantle and not instantly becoming a monster after drinking. The way he treats her so softly but covers her bruise with her hair, which can be taken either as an apology (abusers often apologize and say they won't hit/yell/etc. again), trying to hide what he's done from himself, her, or society, or trying to fix her/make her more beautiful because he sees the bruise as an ugly thing to be hidden (basically him blaming HER for it). The fear in her eyes when he grabs her shoulder contrasted with the intensity of the kiss they share. It's really sickeningly beautiful how well-done the choreography and cinematography are.

[@siddhpura3538]

Beautifully explained,thanks

[@jeffschuler5659]

Perhaps a small piece of your own reality.

[@011silbermond]

This lady has one hell of a talent for taking the right role offerings!! Although I haven´t seen much of her yet, mostly only outtakes or read a description, it hits deep to see that she reminds me in her apperaance and attitude so much of myself than noone before. Glad you came up. Wish you the best for your career, Saoirse, show them!!! 💖💖🤗🤗😘😘

[@mariacanasmendes9861]

When we hear of cases of continuous domestic violence we (having never been in that situation) are so quick to judge the victim for allowing their partner's violent behavior. From the outside the abuser just looks like a monster to us and it is incomprehensible how anyone could love someone like that. That's why this video is so increadibly well made. You only see the one who hurt her being gentle and loving. When you see the bruise for a moment there I even doubted it was him who inflicted it. Thank you Hozier for really portraying the complexity of what is domestic violence and overall toxic relationships and beautiful song

[@iwishiwasabeetle]

This is my favorite by hozier. The song is beautiful. It sings about a woman being the abuser and the video is a man as the abuser. And it shows that they have romantic and intimate moments. That they love each other. Cause everyone imagines abusive relationships as just fighting and abuse all the time.(including the victims) One of the big reasons people stay in the relationship is because they think they're in love and the abuser almost always says they won't do it again and cry and say sorry and shit. And this doesn't just go for physical abuse. There's people who rape their significant other and the victim just accepts it because maybe the rapist "didn't mean to" or "that's how it works in a relationship" And mental abuse Just All the way around If you identify with any of this, please leave your relationship. I know it's difficult af but trust me, you will feel so much better after a couple months

[@shelbychancey6911]

I know I'm late to this, but a story from personal experience (trigger warning: rape, emotional abuse): My first serious relationship was abusive. I gave my virginity to this person because I thought we'd be together forever. He raped me at least once a week while we were together. He would punch walls and couches, steering wheels and fridges-- that indicated, "I want to hit you, but I'm a good man so I'm punching the wall instead." I remember the first time he pulled his fist back to punch something, and I thought he was going to hit me, so I flinched. Which incited a whole other argument. Yet he would always kiss me good morning, he would cook dinner for us, he loved me. He would rape me, then tell me how much he loved me. He would punch walls, then take care of me while I was sick. So it's not always fighting. Breaking up with him was the most difficult, heartbreaking thing I've ever done. But as I got into my friend's car after the breakup, the first thing that came into my head was, "I'm free. Thank god, I'm free." There's always 2 sides to every coin, 2 versions of the same story (my ex would try to tell you I cheated on him when in reality, I'd rather die than succumb to infidelity). What's important is your safety. You have people who love and care about you, and you deserve love as it truly is, not this violence disguised as love.

[@eklipzik1792]

It’s actually about a guy in an abusive relation ship but it shows a women in the video to show that anyone can be abused

[@paok.r6771]

🤝🙏

[@paok.r6771]

difficult but right tho

[@kayotickay]

I WAS TRYINF TO DO MY HOMEWORK BUT I GOT THE NOTIFICATION AND CLICKED ON IT SO FAST

[@kayotickay]

This video is so beautiful ❤️

[@GoldenCrownPrincess]

same

[@katim.4110]

me too!!!

[@kermitthefroggy123]

SAME

[@matrix1659]

Same

[@PrinceGaire]

“ Way she tells me I’m hers and she’s mine, Open hand or closed fist would be fine “ Hozier literally poured his heart in this ❤️ Forever favorite ❤️

[@samboosaya2806]

4 years later and i’ve just realised that this is Saoirse

[@poppyappletree1400]

Same here

[@ive-3692]

totally unrelated but when i saw the date in this song was 2016, in my head i was like 'thats 2 years ago'. 2018 was 2 years ago but why doesnt it feel like that??

[@whiff9686]

Samedt

[@zylan2614]

oh shoot you right

[@mooonllight]

Me too lol

[@bangtansonyeondan7626]

We accept the love we think we deserve ~ The Perks of being a wallflower

[@charleeowen7739]

STOP I WILL GENUINELY CRY MORE OH MY GOODNESS I-

[@Plainjane1398]

That hurts me a lot. But I know it's true too

[@vvitchofthewest]

not sure why but i knew something was up within the first few seconds of the video like, when it showed her touching her wrist i was like 'off this is off somethING IS WRONG', and then she adjusted her hair in the mirror and my brain's alarms went on full blast like kudos the the people who worked on the video, man amazing how they dropped subtle hints so you can guess what's going on then rewatch and see any hints you might've missed it's honestly fantastic

[@veronical4373]

And when she touched her wrist there are bruises in her other

[@averagelife5449]

@sleep dude, I am sorry but you probably knew it cause of the thumbnail. Still a great video though.

[@rizamification]

sleep thank u for pointing this out! I missed this scene but then came back and saw the bruises in her another hand at 0:13

[@moosefilmsbest9696]

This is by far my fav music from hozier. Everything is perfect. Melodies, lyrics, acting, directing.... a true masterpiece

[@TheUniverseOfMine]

Seriously who wouldn't want to listen to the entire album after listening to this beauty. :'(

[@TwistedWillow3]

I like how the song is about a woman abusing a man and the video is about a man abusing a woman. There is an equality in perspective - the dichotomy between the words and the visuals - that I really respect.

[@rebekah_marie_95]

I used to watch this music video and cry my heart out. I was trapped in an abusive relationship but was so sad to leave the “good things,” and so scared of a future without him. Two years later I look back and I am so very, very glad that I had the courage to leave. If you’re reading this and you’re wondering what to do, this is your sign. Hope this helps someone. ❤️

[@mouldylungs]

this song has really helped me heal. I think it forced me to confront my emotions after I left my girlfriend, but it also felt warm and comforting while it did that. It's like it called me out on what I was feeling, then rocked me to sleep. Truly beautiful, and the reason I'm offended people say there's no good music these days

[@Dreeraven]

“But I want it/ It’s a crime/ That she’s not around/ Most of the time” This isn’t just to say that the singer really loves this woman, it might also be to say that the singer feels he deserves this abuse. I’ll never forget the first time I saw The Perks of Being a Wallflower, while being a teen in an emotionally abuse household, and heard the line “We accept the love we think we deserve”. The effects of psychological/emotional/verbal abuse are devastating- I, along with millions of others, can attest to that. To add physical abuse on top of that? Terrifying, heart breaking. All of it.

[@MondoLoops]

I Know this has 21 million views but it somehow feels so underrated, this poetry should surely be the pinnacle of modern music, wow!

[@absinthe9553]

It's probably the part of the video at 2:29 that just gets under my skin, since Ronan's expression is that of uncertain fear. Followed by the apologetic affection of the husband. The uncertainty whether the next touch will be abuse or love. Haunting.

[@sarahhamon4883]

An actual piece of art: the video itself isn't graphic or violent, and perfectly conveys that being in an abusive relationship on a daily basis isn't always what we think it is. There's no stereotype in this video. And the final frames, where these people silently stare dead in our eyes are so powerful... I don't have words to describe how beautiful this and somehow painful this video is. Absolutely amazing ❤️

[@emilyhouse1036]

i think on a day like 14th of feb it's important to remember how widespread, how common domestic violence can be. and that abusers can and often do make sweet romantic gestures. doesn't mean you owe them anything

[@sarvin4471]

I love that he represents the male being abused by a woman in the lyrics and a woman being abuses by a man in the music video. It represents both sides. It’s beautiful

[@daniellelaurino1469]

This is a powerful video. It shows so many things. The highs and lowes of a relationship. How passion can turn into violence. Then the video goes to her sitting and possibly contemplating how she got there. He comes in and her wanting to comfort him from his guilt when he tries to hide what he did to her. Her response to his guilt. The stoic eyes to push it down. She stands there uncovered her eye to stand in her truth and move forward. Whether it's to continue stay love him deal with the pain or move on we don't know. ..... all the emotions in one video.

[@jazzalterio692]

this kind of music makes me feel relaxed and comfortable

[@jazzalterio692]

even though it's about domestical abuse xD

[@lamarie942]

+Lindsay Jade Brown That's Hozier magic... his musical gets to your soul

[@lilacmoonlight99]

same

[@rissarose781]

The fact that the video doesn't actually show the abuse gives outsiders a perspective of what going through this type of thing is like. People always say "why don't they leave" but when someone treats a person the way WE SAW the man in the video treat the woman it makes it seem like all there is is love and that's why most people stick around; for the times in which the abuser acts kind and loving. These situations aren't always black and white there are good times like what we saw in this video but the thing is; often those good times don't outweigh the bad ones.

[@NoName-qi5ck]

I really glad that they're donating the money, and bringing awareness to this issue. I've been a victim of domestic abuse, and I've had the people I love most go through domestic abuse. More people need to speak up so we can prevent this on both sides, so we can prevent the abuser from becoming the abuser, and the victim from becoming the victim, and also so we can get anybody out of an abusive situation.

[@seulgyu.jongseong]

Lost someone today who died due to some chronic illness on paper but we all know she suffered from unimaginable years of physical, emotional and mental abuse. I feel so sorry and frustrated at myself because I couldn't do anything. All I can do is hope that she is in a better place now and is finally at peace. I do have someone else who is at the first stage of such abuse and this time I will do my best to protect and save her.

[@999cosmic]

From someone who was abused... This song describes the after math abuse has on a person. You're programmed to think love=physical pain. And that is something that really destroys a person

[@alleherman4527]

So powerful seeing how he tries to cover her bruised eye with her hair as to somehow say he's sorry. But he'll still do it again and again.