[13] Simon Williams of NME was more reserved in his praise of the album, advising listeners that "patience is a virtue" while nonetheless calling it a "delicate, intelligent record".

[2] In 2002, Matt LeMay of Stylus Magazine wrote that "by addressing concepts so grand with such sincerity and skill, the album is incredibly powerful under even the most mundane of circumstances".

[17] Reviewing its 2012 reissue, Aaron Lavery of Drowned in Sound called I See a Darkness Oldham's "finest achievement thus far" and the "essential release" in his discography.

[11] Johnny Cash recorded the titular track on his 2000 album American III: Solitary Man, with Oldham providing background vocals.

All lyrics are written by Will Oldham, except "Song for the New Breed" by Dianne Bellino; all music is composed by OldhamCredits adapted from liner notes.