In The Dark Places
PJ Harvey · Let England Shake [2011]
Washed our faces,
Walked the fields
And put up crosses.
Passed through the damned mountains,
Went hellwards,
And some of us returned,
And some of us did not.
In the fields and in the forests,
Under the moon and under the sun
Another summer has passed before us,
And not one man has,
And not one woman has
Revealed the secrets of this world.
So our young men
Hid with guns, in the dirt
And in the dark places.
Our young men
Hid with guns, in the dirt
And in the dark places.
Our young men
Hid with guns, in the forest
And in the dark places.
And not one man has,
And not one woman has
Revealed the secrets of this world.
In The Dark Places
PJ Harvey's "In The Dark Places" serves as a haunting centerpiece on her 2011 album *Let England Shake*. The track exemplifies her signature blend of gothic rock and atmospheric post-punk, characterized by her distinctive, emotive vocal delivery and layered instrumentation. Released during a period where Harvey explored darker, more introspective themes, the song reflects her ongoing engagement with British cultural history and personal turmoil. It stands as a testament to her ability to craft immersive soundscapes that resonate deeply with listeners, maintaining her reputation as a pivotal figure in alternative music. The recording captures the raw intensity and lyrical depth that have defined her career, offering a stark contrast to her earlier, more upbeat works while reinforcing her status as a formidable artist.