Black Flies by Ben Howard is an intensely personal composition that delves into themes of transient relationships, grievance, and the relentless flow of time. Characterized by its somber melody and deeply evocative lyrics, this song is regarded as one of Howard‘s most important and reflective works. Contrary to what some may initially perceive, “Black Flies” is not a romantic ballad; instead, it serves as a poignant meditation on the fleeting nature of friendships and the emotional consequences of growing apart.
This article will examine the underlying meaning of “Black Flies,” assess its importance within Ben Howard‘s body of work, and evaluate its resonance with audiences globally, especially following its connection to the video game “Life Is Strange: Before The Storm.”
The Story Behind Black Flies by Ben Howard
Released as part of his debut album Every Kingdom in 2012, Black Flies quickly garnered a dedicated following, celebrated for its profound emotional resonance and reflective lyrics. The melody unfolds in a gentle, almost entrancing manner, yet the song’s message is far from cheerful. It tells the story of a friendship that has gradually faded into obscurity.
Black Flies by Ben Howard opens with the imagery of black flies on a windowsill, representing decay and stagnation. The phrase “Black flies on the windowsill, that we are, that we are, that we are to know” conveys a feeling of resignation, where the flies’ presence reflects the relentless passage of time and the relationships that diminish and disappear. These flies serve not merely as nuisances; they embody the painful realities we may choose to overlook, yet they remain ever-present and inescapable.
In a 2012 interview with Reuters, Ben Howard discussed the inspiration behind the song, stating, “We ended up doing separate things and going separate ways. That’s what I write about most of the time, the people who come in and out of our lives and the memories that you form around them.” This insight deepens the understanding of the song’s emotional landscape, affirming that Black Flies addresses not romantic love, but rather the dissolution of a significant friendship.
The Misconception of Black Flies as a Love Song
Many listeners have initially perceived Black Flies as a love song, despite its melancholic tones. The soft guitar strumming and the wistful undertones may evoke thoughts of heartbreak or romantic separation. However, Ben Howard has clarified that the true essence of the song lies in the disintegration of a friendship.
In Black Flies, Ben Howard delves into the intricacies of human relationships and the unavoidable separations that occur. The lyric “Maybe you were the ocean when I was just a stone” illustrates the disparity within the relationship, where one individual is vast and encompassing (the ocean), while the other feels diminutive and inconsequential (the stone). This metaphor underscores a sense of emotional disconnection, suggesting that one person may have been prepared to move forward while the other struggles to keep pace.
The phrase “No man is an island, oh, this I know,” carries particular weight. It encapsulates the notion that humans are fundamentally social creatures, unable to thrive in solitude for extended periods. Nevertheless, the song conveys that even the deepest connections can eventually diminish, leaving only memories in their wake.
The Impact of Black Flies on Ben Howard’s Career
Ben Howard’s career was significantly advanced by the song Black Flies, which highlighted his talent for creating emotionally intricate compositions that resonate profoundly with audiences. The track’s minimalist yet impactful sound played a crucial role in establishing the atmosphere of his debut album, Every Kingdom, which garnered widespread praise for its reflective lyrics and understated instrumentation.
Although Black Flies was not released as a single, it gained considerable popularity due to Howard’s distinctive songwriting approach and the emotional sincerity that characterized the piece. Over time, Black Flies emerged as one of the most emblematic songs in his collection, with many fans viewing it as a prime example of his ability to convey deep emotional truths through music.
In 2018, the song experienced a resurgence in popularity when it was included in the video game Life Is Strange: Before The Storm. Within this game, Black Flies features during a bonus episode titled Farewell, which centers on the poignant goodbye between two characters. The game’s exploration of themes such as loss and nostalgia closely aligns with the song’s message, and its inclusion introduced Black Flies to a broader audience. Many players, unfamiliar with Ben Howard prior to this, were captivated by how the song seamlessly enhanced the game’s bittersweet atmosphere.
Exploring the Lyrics of Black Flies
A comprehensive analysis of the lyrics is crucial for a profound understanding of Black Flies. The initial verse establishes the song’s somber atmosphere, employing imagery that conveys a feeling of desolation.
“Black flies on the windowsill
That we are, that we are, that we are to know
Winter stole summer’s thrill
And the river’s cracked and cold”
The depiction of black flies on a windowsill evokes an immediate sense of deterioration and abandonment. The expression “Winter stole summer’s thrill” implies a profound loss of energy and happiness, as the harshness of winter supplants the warmth and joy associated with summer. The description of the river as “cracked and cold” serves as a metaphor for emotional detachment and the erosion of once-cherished bonds.
As the song unfolds, Howard contemplates the transformations wrought by time. The lines “Comfort came against my will / And every story must grow old” reference the unease that often accompanies the passage of time and the unavoidable decline of relationships. Nevertheless, Howard conveys his determination with the assertion “Still I’ll be a traveler, a gypsy’s reins to face,” indicating that although his previous connections may have faded, he remains committed to progressing through life, confronting its challenges as they arise.
Black Flies as a Universal Experience
One of the key factors that allows Black Flies to resonate profoundly with its audience is its universal appeal. Although the song is grounded in Ben Howard’s personal experiences, its exploration of themes such as loss, transformation, and the passage of time is relatable to many. Numerous individuals have encountered the gradual decline of friendships or relationships, whether as a result of physical distance, life transitions, or simply growing apart.
The phrase “No man is an island” encapsulates this universal reality — that while human connections may be delicate, they are vital to our emotional health. However, as the song powerfully conveys, even the most robust relationships can fade over time. The imagery of the ocean and the stone further highlights how imbalances within relationships can foster feelings of estrangement and sorrow.
The Emotional Power of Black Flies
What distinguishes Black Flies is the profound emotional resonance it generates. Through its minimalist composition and evocative melody, the song establishes an environment conducive to introspection regarding personal experiences of loss and separation. Regardless of whether individuals have experienced a friendship’s dissolution as depicted by Ben Howard, many can identify with the feelings of regret, nostalgia, and emotional detachment that the song elicits.
The track’s subtle intensity captivates listeners, enabling them to engage fully with the emotional narrative presented. The repeated line, “Or maybe you were the ocean when I was just a stone,” intensifies the feeling of yearning, emphasizing the notion of an imbalanced relationship.
Expert Editorial Comment
In summary, Black Flies by Ben Howard transcends the boundaries of a mere song; it serves as a profound commentary on the essence of human relationships, the relentless flow of time, and the emotional burden associated with the deterioration of once-vibrant connections. Although some listeners may initially perceive the piece as a romantic narrative, its deeper significance lies in its examination of friendship and the harsh truth that individuals evolve and drift apart.
Ben Howard’s talent for articulating intricate emotions through straightforward yet poignant lyrics has established “Black Flies” as one of his most cherished compositions. Its connection to “Life Is Strange: Before The Storm” has further entrenched its status in popular culture, allowing it to resonate with broader audiences and enhance its emotional resonance.
Regardless of whether you are a devoted admirer of Ben Howard or have only recently come across his work, “Black Flies” continues to be a compelling and evocative piece that encapsulates the bittersweet essence of human connections.
Black Flies by Ben Howard: A Haunting Reflection on Friendship and Separation