The Mistress Witch from McClure (or, The Mind
Sufjan Stevens · The Avalanche [2006]
When my sister picks a fight
With the Alexander boy
And my father locks the car
By the store
Still we figure out the keys
And follow him once more
Oh my God
We see it on the floor
The woman on the bed
The ankle brace she wore
Stones and sled
It could have been some other
The mind that knows itself
Has a mind to serve the other
But we run back
Scratching at the door
Scratching at the door
If I'm hiding in the sleeves
Of my coat
When my father runs undressed
He's pointing at my throat
And my brother has a fit
In the snow
And the traffic stops for miles
We take him by the elbow
Oh my God
The shuffling at the floor
A mind that knows itself
Is a mind that knows much more
So we run back
Scrambling for cover
A mind that knows itself
Has a mind to kill the other
(Oh my God
No one came to our side
To carry us away from danger)
Oh my God
He left us now for dead
He left us now for dead
The Mistress Witch from McClure (or, The Mind
Sufjan Stevens' 'The Mistress Witch from McClure (or, The Mind)' stands as a vivid example of the intricate storytelling found on his 2006 album, The Avalanche. During this period, Stevens was refining a sound that blended folk traditions with baroque pop arrangements, often weaving complex narratives into his compositions. This track contributes to a broader discography where Stevens frequently explores themes of history, geography, and personal introspection. The recording showcases his signature layered instrumentation and melodic sensitivity, marking a significant moment in his evolution before the release of his later, more widely acclaimed state-themed projects. It remains a compelling piece for listeners interested in the detailed craftsmanship of his mid-career work.