Where does anthropomorphizing end, and a genuine understanding of repeated patterns in nature begin? A volcanic island has a lifespan—measured in millions of years, true, but a “birth,” rising from the seabed to puncture the ocean's surface, and a “death”—sunken islands are called “drowned” in the scientific literature. We make a charming story about a volcano, assigning personality and romance to it. But is it so crazy to think a volcano loves? That it loves the ocean, the sky and creatures, even the bubbling Earth from which it springs? Is it so crazy to sense an underlying oneness to everything?

Kuana Torres Kahele and Napua Greig (vocals), James Ford Murphy (ukulele), “Lava,” from the Pixar short film Lava. Written by James Ford Murphy, 2015.

This post is part of Music 100, a love letter to songs. 100 words on 100 songs in 100 days, running from Groundhog Day to summer, 2025.

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