Colin Meloy, the “literate” indie, eschews his thesaurus for a simple story of the Civil War in a duet with Laura Veirs.  Their alternating verses are compelling, especially mixed in with the ur-chorus of repeated monosyllables—but that kind of commentary is crap.

    I like a song because it makes me feel something.  Dwelling too much on why degrades the feeling by analysis, yet I was reminded by something in the lyrics.

1. But oh my love, though our bodies may be parted
   

2. Though our skin may not touch skin
   

3. Look for me with the sun-bright sparrow
   

4. I will come on the breath of the wind
   

    Those who are familiar with Ken Burns and The Civil War may remember Major Sullivan Ballou, who, it is said, penned a letter to his wife shortly before he was killed at Bull Run.  Part of it reminds me of the song.

1. If the dead can come back to this earth and flit unseen around those they loved, I shall always be near you; in the garish day and in the darkest night -- amidst your happiest scenes and gloomiest hours -- always, always; and if there be a soft breeze upon your cheek, it shall be my breath; or the cool air fans your throbbing temple, it shall be my spirit passing by.
   

    I do not know if the letter inspired Meloy, nor do I know for certain that Sullivan Ballou even wrote it.  All I know is that when I hear the song I am reminded of beauty even in great sorrow, and that is a truth in itself.