Sufjan Stevens - Casimir Pulaski Day; Regina Spektor - Chemo Limo

Cancer is an extremely difficult subject to treat sensitively. These two songs are the only two I know of to so do well. The first is Sufjan Steven's 'Casimir Pulaski Day' off the Come on! Feel the Illinoise! album (2005). It's written from the perspective of a Christian (I assume male), in love with Christian girl who has been diagnosed with cancer of the bone, and is full of wise perspectives on how people deal with anticipated grief. It's sad but it's also about the beauty of life. I recommend reading the lyrics.

Sufjan Stevens - Casimir Pulasky Day



Regina Spektor's 'Chemo Limo' is written from the perspective of someone with terminal cancer, though this isn't immediately obvious. In fact, initially it's surreally funny ("crispy crispy Benjamin Franklin") but soon the dark underside to the lyrics becomes apparent and it's heartbreaking, especially the part about Barbara. Lyrics.

Regina Spektor - Chemo Limo



----------------
Now playing: Sufjan Stevens - They Are Night Zombies!! They Are Neighbors!! They Have Come Back From The Dead!! Ahhhh!