Meaning and Lyrics of The Howl by Crowded House

“The Howl” by Crowded House is a cryptic and emotionally charged song that seems to delve into themes of anger, defiance, protection, loneliness, and resilience.

In the first verse, the imagery of a woman with a sword in her hand, cutting circles in the sand, suggests a powerful and determined figure framed in a dramatic setting. The intensity of her actions hints at deep emotion and conflict.

The second verse introduces the idea of an “old guard to upend” and “sisters to defend,” possibly alluding to challenges to tradition or established norms and a sense of solidarity among women. The lines “I won’t try to pretend, ’cause you know we get along, always laughing like we’re kids” suggest camaraderie and mutual understanding in the face of adversities.

The third verse takes a more introspective turn, with the singer feeling submerged and feeling a sense of isolation. The mention of not wanting to be alone but being unable to love again suggests past scars that are hard to heal, leading to a cycle of repetition and monotony. The mention of learning lines that are the same each night implies a sense of stagnation or being stuck in a pattern.

In the fourth verse, there is a shift towards a more confrontational tone, with a metaphorical reference to barking and leaving. The imagery of not being able to see the forest from the trees could indicate a sense of being lost or overwhelmed. The warning to “beware when I’m baring my teeth” suggests a readiness to defend oneself forcefully when pushed to a limit. The mention of howling in the air reinforces a primal and raw expression of emotion, possibly symbolizing a release of pent-up feelings.

The outro paints a picture of holding back emotions, shaking off tensions, and finally letting out a howl, which can be seen as a cathartic release of built-up energy and an assertion of strength and resilience. The repetitive “ah, woo-ooh” at the end creates a haunting and almost primal sound, emphasizing the raw and visceral nature of the emotional journey portrayed in the song.

Overall, “The Howl” appears to be a nuanced exploration of internal struggles, external conflicts, and the complexities of relationships, all wrapped in evocative and vivid imagery.