or a into the mythological roots of his more recent work?
: Critics and fans often view the narrator as unreliable, using intellectual and mythological references to create a power structure that favors his pursuit. Mythological and Literary References
"Talk" by Hozier is a haunting exploration of desire, manipulation, and the performative nature of seduction. Released on his 2019 album Wasteland, Baby! , the song contrasts smooth, soulful instrumentals with lyrics that reveal a narrator carefully crafting a "refined" version of himself to win over a lover.
The narrator admits to using "lofty tales" and romantic imagery to mask his true, perhaps more primal, intentions.
: References to The Divine Comedy appear through the "sweat of fever on the brows of Beatrice," positioning the narrator within the circles of sin before love is lost.