Get Lyrical: Scratching The Surface Of The Weakerthans' "Plea From A Cat Named Virtute"
posted in: Features
Are you a wordsmith who’s drawn in by the lyrics of a song rather than the melody? Wish there was a way to find the best of the best lyrics, all in one place? Never fear! Get Lyrical”a weekly look into the wordy side of music” is here to fill that void. Check back each week for lyrical breakdowns, features and interviews!
This week, Get Lyrical takes a look at The Weakerthans‘ Plea From a Cat Named Virtute, from the band’s 2003 album Reconstruction Site. (You can listen to the song here.) Plea is written from the point of view of Virtute, a thoughtful feline who’s concerned about the depressed, listless state of her owner. You sleep as much as I do now, she remarks, And you don’t eat much of anything. Her mantra, repeated over and over in the song, is simply this: I know you’re strong. The lyrics are written by the amazing John K. Samson, and a
re so vivid that the listener can really feel Virtute’s frustration when she threatens to bite her caretaker if you don’t stop the self-defeating lies you’ve been repeating since the day you brought me home. Plea tackles depression”a tough subject”with a lighthearted delivery style. But while a song about depression delivered from the mouth of a tabby could come off as gimmicky, instead it’s a powerful statement about remaining optimistic and not giving up. Despite her lack of opposable thumbs, Virtute is incredibly relatable and likable, giving the song credibility. And it’s an intriguing thought, because who hasn’t, at some point, wondered what their pets think of them?
It isn’t clear what happens between Virtute and her keeper on Plea. Though she has many suggestions to spread cheer”including inviting the tabby two doors down to come over for girly drinks and parlor games”Virtute seems to get more frustrated as the song continues. She ends her plea by repeating I know you’re strong, one last time. Listeners can follow up with the Virtute as she makes an appearance on Reunion Tour (2007). Unfortunately”spoiler alert!”the track is titled Virtute the Cat Explains Her Departure. Guess everything doesn’t work out for the tabby and her owner.
Like Plea, the Weakerthans’ lyrical catalog appeals to all kinds of fans for many different reasons. Those who like a little whimsy in their lyrics should check out Our Retired Explorer (Dines With Michael Foucault in Paris, 1961). Prefer darker, more introspective fare? Check out Leash, which opens with the line, Had one of those days when you want to try heroin. Either way, John K. Samson’s vivid imagery and beautiful metaphors will stay with you long after you hear his songs.