Hozier – “From Eden” Lyrics Meaning

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Written By Joanna Landrum

Joanna holds a BSc in English Literature and uses her expertise in literary analysis to uncover the deeper meaning of her favorite songs.

“From Eden” by Hozier is a mesmerizing portrayal of a love that’s equally enchanting and agonizing. Through the poetic verses, Hozier paints a narrative of someone who is irresistibly drawn to another, recognizing both the beauty and the brokenness within them. The song delves deep into the realm of admiration, longing, and the complexities of human relationships, taking listeners on a journey that’s layered with passion and pain.


Intrigued by the allure of Eden and what Hozier is saying about love and loss? Keep reading as we navigate the ethereal waters of this poignant song!

“From Eden” Lyrics Meaning

“From Eden” offers listeners a riveting tale of a love that is both bewitching and haunting. From the outset, the opening lines “Babe, There’s something tragic about you, Something so magic about you” captures the duality of feelings towards the beloved – seeing both the enchantment and the sorrow.

The song beautifully encapsulates the duality of human nature – the mix of wholesomeness and solitude, as expressed in “There’s something lonesome about you, Something so wholesome about you.” This duality presents love as a mirror, reflecting the intricacies of our own selves.

The recurrent lines, “Honey, you’re familiar like my mirror years ago,” suggest a deep resonance and familiarity with the loved one, as though they reflect past experiences or perhaps even past selves. This could be a reflection of how love can make us face our past, our regrets, or even our lost innocence.

Moreover, references to Eden, a Biblical allusion to the Garden of Eden, tie in themes of temptation, fall, and desire. The line “I slithered here from Eden just to sit outside your door” is particularly evocative, suggesting a serpentine tempter who has journeyed far from a place of purity and innocence just for a mere chance at closeness.

The poignant lines “Idealism sits in prison, chivalry fell on its sword, Innocence died screaming” hint at a world that’s lost its innocence, where ideals are imprisoned, and virtues have been sacrificed. Yet, amidst this bleak portrayal, there remains an undying pull of attraction and longing.

The Story Behind “From Eden”

The genius behind “From Eden” is none other than Andrew Hozier-Byrne, famously known as Hozier. He’s renowned for his ability to craft lyrics that intertwine love, spirituality, and existential ponderings.

In the period leading up to the creation of “From Eden,” Hozier was often seen delving into themes of love, faith, and human nature. The song embodies these explorations, merging the personal with the universal, the carnal with the spiritual.

Drawing inspiration from the Biblical Garden of Eden, the song resonates with the idea of forbidden love and the lengths one would go to be close to one’s heart’s desire. Hozier’s choice to frame the narrative around Eden adds depth, allowing listeners to juxtapose the idea of unblemished paradise with the real-world complexities of love and desire.

“From Eden” is also a reflection of society’s shifting morals and values. With lines highlighting the demise of idealism and chivalry, Hozier might be commenting on a world becoming more cynical and less idealistic.

The song, with its hauntingly beautiful melody and evocative lyrics, stands as a testament to Hozier’s prowess as a songwriter – someone who can effortlessly traverse the vast landscapes of love, longing, and human imperfections. Through “From Eden,” he offers a mirror, urging listeners to introspect, confront, and perhaps even embrace the complexities within.