Pärlor by kent is a deeply introspective and philosophical song that contemplates the essence of the soul and the passing of time. The lyrics, sung in Swedish, juxtapose childhood innocence with grown-up realizations, referencing the changing nature of relationships and personal growth. The recurring theme asks 'Vilken färg har själen?' or 'What color is the soul?' indicating a search for deeper meaning and understanding in life's journey.
The song 'Pärlor' by kent embarks listeners on a contemplative journey, with an emotional trajectory that moves from nostalgia to self-reflection. At the beginning, the artist sets up a narrative that hints at stories ('Sagor') for children who are as untainted and inquisitive as the listener once was. The mention of a 'tunnel vid ljusets slut', which translates to 'a tunnel at the end of the light', introduces a motif of seeking enlightenment or finding one's way in the dark.
As the song progresses, the artists, consisting of Joakim Berg, Martin Sköld, Markus Mustonen, Sami Sirviö, and Harri Mänty reflect upon the growth from childhood to adulthood, suggesting that the passage of time brings maturity that makes them long for a second chance ('Ge oss en chans, vi är äldre nu'). This expresses a yearning to apply the wisdom they've acquired over the years into their past experiences.
The refrain is where the emotional core of 'Pärlor' lies, with an almost anthemic plea to 'Snurra min jord igen' or 'Spin my earth again', symbolizing a desire to relive or re-experience moments from the past with current knowledge. The desolate landscape of 'Stockholm ligger öde' underscores a sense of isolation and introspection, as if the world has paused ('världen håller andan') giving them a moment to reflect.
The artists conclude with a meditative repetition of the question 'Vilken färg har själen?', challenging listeners to join them in pondering the nature of the soul. This repeated philosophical musing serves as a metaphor for a multitude of questions about identity, purpose, and emotion that often come with personal growth and retrospection.
"Sagor för barnen som är som du"
Sagor för barnen' translates to 'stories for the children' and reflects the simplicity and innocence attributed to childhood, which contrasts with the complexity of adult experiences.
"Stockholm ligger öde och världen håller andan"
'Stockholm ligger öde' means 'Stockholm lies deserted', conveying a feeling of emptiness and contemplation, and 'världen håller andan' translates to 'the world is holding its breath', emphasizing a moment frozen in time.
"Ge oss en chans, vi är äldre nu"
This line, meaning 'Give us a chance, we are older now', signifies a plea for the opportunity to apply the wisdom gained with age to overcome past mistakes or to see life from a more mature perspective.
"Vilken färg har själen?"
This line, which repeats throughout the song, means 'What color is the soul?' and serves as the central theme of the track, prompting listeners to reflect upon the intangible qualities that define the human spirit.