top of page
What Does "M&B" Stand For?
"M&B" stands for "Monkey and Bear," a song written by the formidable Joanna Newsom.
​
This story-song follows Monkey and Bear as they escape captivity.
​
Monkey showers Bear with love, affection, and the promise of a better future now that they're free.
​
If only she dances.
​
"We had got to pay the bills," says Monkey.
​
The villagers mercilessly hound bear as she dances,
"throwing coins at her feet then recoiling in terror."
​
The song captures what so many survivors of interpersonal violence and human trafficking experience:
​
Bear is vulnerable after a life of captivity
Bear is vulnerable to displays of love
Monkey is eager to exploit and coerce Bear for money.
We at M&B envision a world free from exploitation, coercion, and trafficking.
So we remember Monkey and Bear.
​
Lyrics | Music
​
bottom of page