Present Tense

Propelled by a delicate, finger-picked acoustic guitar pattern influenced by Brazilian bossa nova, this track stands out as one of the most romantic, tender moments in the band's discography. Thom Yorke's falsetto explores the necessity of remaining anchored in the current moment as a defense mechanism against overwhelming grief and a collapsing world. The intricate, swirling choral arrangements and subtle string orchestration give the song a quiet, devastating majesty.