Released: 2023
Aesop Rock’s track “Bermuda” featuring Lealani is a vivid tapestry that weaves themes of nature and introspection into the listener’s consciousness. Through complex imagery and poetic expression, Aesop paints a picture of peace through botanical metaphors while confronting violence and internal struggles. Lealani’s soothing refrain underscores the main theme, serving as both a contrast and complement to Aesop’s intricate verses.
The hook, sung by Lealani, delivers a haunting juxtaposition of pain and resilience with the repetition of being “slayed” and “drained” yet choosing to “send you flowers.” It hints at an enduring struggle but simultaneously offers peace or an olive branch symbolized by the flowers. Flowers, traditionally seen as tokens of peace or condolences, here seem to represent attempts at healing or reconciliation.
Aesop begins his first verse by painting himself as the “King of world peace,” a somewhat ironic statement given the chaotic nature often present in human interactions. The “purple aura” and “laurel wreath” allude to peace and victory, but it is within nature’s imagery—flowers, moss, coral—that he grounds his identity. Each line skillfully links flora to human characteristics, illustrating a harmony between the two.
The floral metaphors continue, weaving through species like “orchidaceae” and “tubers and roots.” His connection to nature goes beyond metaphor; it’s a statement of being intertwined with the earth, evident in “dahlias grow out of my back.” He cleverly contrasts aggression with tranquility, as seen in the imagery of “doing dirt in the daisies” and de-escalation amidst bouquets, emphasizing nonviolence over hostility.
In describing human conflict as “doofus shit” that “don’t play in the Tulips,” Aesop highlights the absurdity of violence within a natural, peaceful setting. He suggests that true strength and resolution come not from aggression but from finding common ground and understanding. This is mirrored in the line “I’m changing into bermudas,” where even attire suggests a transition towards tranquility and casualness.
Further, the imagery of “guns and roses” evolving into “roses and roses” symbolically indicates a transformation from violence to peace. It implies an overwhelming return to nature’s purity, contrasting with humanity’s destructive tendencies. The phrase “those aromas make a toughie throw his toast in the ocean” is a beautiful encapsulation of surrender to peace and the overwhelming power of nature.
The second verse expands on this theme of floral domination over aggression, depicting nature’s calming effect. Even the war god Ares is drawn to say “hello,” enchanted by the surroundings. Aesop’s lush depiction of “morning glories” and flowers that evoke childhood innocence through “bubblegum and marshmallows” portrays an inviting world free of conflict.
There’s a narrative of transformation present—where hatred and hostility can dissolve in the face of simple natural beauty. The evocative image of flowers overpowering aggression signifies a possible peace that surpasses human disputes. When he speaks of the “kingdom of chlorophyll assembled for spring-cleaning,” it’s a call for rejuvenation, rebirth, and peace to reclaim a world marred by conflict.
Aesop ends his verse with the line about the “kingdom of chlorophyll assembled for spring-cleaning,” underscoring nature’s dominance over the chaos humans create. This vision of nature not only cleanses but renews, suggesting that harmony with nature could restore balance in the human condition.
The closing hook reiterates the juxtaposition of pain and healing, leaving listeners with the reminder of human vulnerability yet immense resilience. Historical context plays into this as Aesop often addresses larger existential themes within his work, making “Bermuda” not just a personal reflection but also a societal one. This song reinforces Aesop Rock’s talent in using dense lyricism and symbolic language to discuss complex themes of inner peace and the often harsh reality of life.
