Song meaning of And She Was (Extended Mix) by Talking Heads

"And She Was" by Talking Heads is a whimsical and dreamlike song that explores the experience of a woman who finds herself in a state of transcendence and detachment from the world around her. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of her journey as she disconnects from reality and enters a realm of her own.

In the first verse, the song describes the woman lying in the grass, hearing the sounds of the highway and seeing a nearby factory. This sets the stage for her initial connection to the physical world. However, as the verse progresses, it becomes clear that she is not merely a passive observer. She is actively ensuring that she is not dreaming, indicating a desire for a deeper understanding of her surroundings. This is exemplified in the line, "Take a minute to concentrate, and she opens up her eyes."

The chorus emphasizes her sense of unity with the world, as she moves in sync with its motion. The repetition of the line "The world was moving, she was right there with it" reinforces her connection to the larger universe. The use of the word "floating" suggests a sense of weightlessness and freedom, as she transcends the limitations of the physical realm.

In the second verse, the woman continues her journey, drifting through the backyard and removing her dress. This act symbolizes a shedding of societal expectations and constraints. She moves slowly, indicating a deliberate and mindful exploration of her newfound freedom. The line "Not touching the ground at all and she's up above the yard" further emphasizes her detachment from the earthly realm.

The bridge introduces a sense of uncertainty and ambiguity. The woman is glad about her experience, but she is unsure about what she has done. This suggests a conflict between the freedom she feels and the potential consequences of her actions. The robotic voice that follows adds an eerie and otherworldly element to the song, further blurring the line between reality and fantasy.

The final verse describes the woman looking at herself and perceiving her surroundings as if they were a movie. This suggests a sense of detachment and detachment from her own identity. She experiences a pleasant elevation and moves in all directions, indicating a complete liberation from the constraints of the physical world.

Overall, "And She Was" by Talking Heads is a song that explores themes of transcendence, freedom, and detachment. It invites listeners to contemplate the boundaries of reality and the possibilities of exploring alternate states of consciousness.