Don’t Explain combines visuals inspired by sacred statuary with an a cappella soundtrack of 20th century jazz standards sung in monastic harmonies. Lyrics of the songs “Don’t Explain” (1946) and “Guilty” (1931) are used in this context to convey the conflicted emotions that come with carrying a child, and the relationship between motherhood, sexuality, and bodily integrity. Words of longing and guilt counter and complement the protagonist’s unflinching gaze toward the viewer and the heavens.