Under the Ivy Lyrics – Kate Bush

English 61 August 5, 1985
"Under the Ivy" by Kate Bush appears to be a song about the desire for intimacy and connection, as well as the need to protect and preserve a private, vulnerable side of oneself. The garden and the white rose could symbolize the delicate, beautiful aspects of our inner selves that we might not easily reveal to others, and the song suggests that there are people who are worth sharing these parts of ourselves with, even if it requires a level of trust and discretion. ...Read More

Under the Ivy Lyrics

[Verse 1: Kate Bush]
It wouldn't take me long to tell you how to find it
To tell you where we'll meet
This little girl inside me
Is retreating to her favourite place

[Chorus: Kate Bush]
Go into the garden, go under the ivy
Under the leaves, away from the party
Go right to the rose, go right to the white rose
(For me)

[Verse 2: Kate Bush]
I sit here in the thunder, the green on the grey
I feel it all around me
And it's not easy for me to give away a secret
It's not safe

[Chorus: Kate Bush]
But go into the garden, go under the ivy
Under the leaves, away from the party
Go right to the rose, go right to the white rose
(For me)
Go into the garden, go under the ivy
Go under the leaves for me
Go right to the rose, go right to the white rose
I'll be waiting for you

[Outro: Kate Bush]
It wouldn't take me long to tell you how to find it

Submitted by  Rollteam

Last Update: November 7, 2023

Under The Ivy Lyrics Meaning

"Under the Ivy" by Kate Bush appears to be a song about the desire for intimacy and connection, as well as the need to protect and preserve a private, vulnerable side of oneself. The garden and the white rose could symbolize the delicate, beautiful aspects of our inner selves that we might not easily reveal to others, and the song suggests that there are people who are worth sharing these parts of ourselves with, even if it requires a level of trust and discretion.

[Verse 1]
In the first verse, the lyrics suggest a sense of intimacy and secrecy. Kate Bush talks about a hidden place or a "favourite place" that she's retreating to. This could be a metaphor for a private, personal space within herself. She hints at the idea that she can guide someone to this place, possibly a close friend or lover.

[Chorus]
The chorus encourages the listener to "go into the garden" and specifically "under the ivy." The garden, in this context, could symbolize a sanctuary or a place of solace, a mental or emotional space where one can escape from the outside world. The ivy and leaves emphasize the idea of concealment or privacy. Going "right to the rose, go right to the white rose" may symbolize the pursuit of purity or a special, cherished part of one's inner self that is hidden away.

[Verse 2]
The second verse introduces the concept of being in the midst of a storm, represented by the "thunder" and the "green on the grey." This could be a metaphor for the emotional turmoil and challenges that one faces. Kate Bush feels the storm all around her, and she's finding it difficult to share a secret, possibly something deeply personal or emotional. It suggests that revealing one's vulnerabilities or true self can be daunting.

[Chorus]
The chorus is repeated, reinforcing the idea of seeking refuge "under the ivy" and guiding someone to the hidden, symbolic "white rose." The repetition underscores the importance of this inner sanctum and the desire for someone to discover it.

[Outro]
The outro echoes the sentiment from the first verse, reiterating that it wouldn't take long to reveal the path to this hidden place. It's as if Kate Bush is emphasizing that she's willing to share her inner world with someone, but it must be done with care and respect.

Overall, "Under the Ivy" seems to encapsulate the yearning for seclusion, intimacy, and the safekeeping of something dear to the heart. It's about finding solace and protection in a hidden, inner sanctum that holds sentimental value, possibly tied to memories, innocence, or a particular emotional state. The lyrics evoke a sense of longing and the desire to share this private space with someone trusted.

This is the end of "Under The Ivy Song Lyrics" by Kate Bush. If you discover any mistake in the song text, please send the correct lyrics by using the Contact Us form.

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Cast & Crew

  • Artist / Band
  • Producer(s)
  • Kate Bush
  • Writter(s)
  • Kate Bush
  • Released On
  • August 5, 1985

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FAQs & Knowledge

Who is the singer of "Under the Ivy" song?

"Under the Ivy" song is sung by Kate Bush.

Who is the lyrics writer of "Under the Ivy" song?

"Under the Ivy" song lyrics written by Kate Bush.

Who is the music producer of "Under the Ivy" song?

"Under the Ivy" song music composed & produced by Kate Bush.

When was "Under the Ivy" song released?

"Under the Ivy" song was released on August 5, 1985.