The Perpetual Self, or What Would Saul Alinsky Do
Sufjan Stevens · The Avalanche [2006]
But I know that you can take it to the Lord
Everything you are, uh-oh
Isn't all that you can gather for yourself
Do you love a lot? Uh-oh
Is it love that you just kiss to everyone?
Is your loving lost? Uh-oh
Is it strange that you perpetuate yourself?
(All that he has given to the world
Is the joy that he will carry to the door)
All that he has given to the world
All that he has given to the world
(Uh-oh, is it strange that you perpetuate yourself?)
All that he has given to the world
(For what it costs, uh-oh)
All that he has given to the world
(Everything is lost, uh-oh)
All that he has given to the world
(Is the joy that he will carry to the door)
All that he has given to the world
(Still I know that you can take it to the war)
The Perpetual Self, or What Would Saul Alinsky Do
Sufjan Stevens' 'The Perpetual Self, or What Would Saul Alinsky Do' stands as a defining track from his 2006 album, The Avalanche. This recording captures the artist's signature blend of indie folk and baroque pop, characterized by intricate instrumentation and introspective lyricism. The song reflects Stevens' tendency to weave personal narrative with broader cultural commentary, a trait that would become increasingly prominent in his subsequent work. As part of a prolific period in his discography, the track showcases his evolving songwriting style, moving beyond the regional focus of his earlier state-themed albums toward more complex, abstract themes. The composition remains a notable example of his ability to balance delicate melodies with dense, layered arrangements, solidifying his reputation as a thoughtful and innovative figure in contemporary American music.