The song recounts the story of the cruel Zeus who transforms himself into a forceful Swan to overpower and violate Queen Leda. The lyrics describe the boyish innocence of Irish warrior Cú Chulainn and weave in visuals of Andrew's own Irish grandmother who navigated border checkpoints to ensure birth control was available for the safety and well-being of her loved ones. A shamrock is pinned to her shawl in a representation of Ireland. Hozier later dedicated this song to women of Iran and to anyone globally living under foundational systems of oppression that seek to control the right of women to their own autonomy, safety and freedom. I was deeply provoked by these relentless examples of oppression & misogyny and decided that this time, Leda wins. This time—it’s we women who triumph. Grandmother and sister and half-veiled but Leda’s hair is free. Symbols of femininity are intentionally placed; a conch shell, pomegranate seed, a fertile and a powerful Nature. The strength of steel concealed behind the grace and softness of a feather.