Skinny Love
Bon Iver · For Emma, Forever Ago [2008]
Pour a little salt we were never here
My, my, my, my, my, my, my, my
Staring at the sink of blood and crushed veneer
I tell my love to wreck it all
Cut out all the ropes and let me fall
My, my, my, my, my, my, my, my
Right in this moment this order's tall
And I told you to be patient
And I told you to be fine
And I told you to be balanced
And I told you to be kind
In the morning I'll be with you
But it will be a different kind
I'll be holding all the tickets
And you'll be owning all the fines
Come on skinny love what happened here
Suckle on the hope in lite brassieres
My, my, my, my, my, my, my, my
Sullen load is full; so slow on the split
And I told you to be patient
And I told you to be fine
And I told you to be balanced
And I told you to be kind
Now all your love is wasted?
Then who the hell was I?
Now I'm breaking at the britches
And at the end of all your lines
Who will love you?
Who will fight?
Who will fall far behind?
Skinny Love
Released on Bon Iver's debut album For Emma, Forever Ago, Skinny Love stands as a defining track of the indie folk revival. Recorded in a raw, acoustic setting, the song showcases Justin Vernon's signature vocal style and minimalist instrumentation, blending emotional vulnerability with a haunting melody. Its stripped-back production highlights the interplay between guitar and voice, creating an intimate atmosphere that resonates deeply with listeners. The track has become a cultural touchstone, influencing countless artists in the indie and folk genres. Its enduring popularity stems from its universal themes of longing and resilience, captured in a recording that remains a cornerstone of modern alternative music.