Voyeur

Kim Carnes' song 'Voyeur' delves into the hidden and often taboo aspects of human desire and loneliness. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman who finds solace in the shadows, away from the prying eyes of society. She engages in voyeuristic behavior, watching videos and indulging in fantasies that provide her with a sense of connection and excitement. This behavior is a coping mechanism for her, a way to escape the mundanity and messiness of her real life, which is hinted at being less than fulfilling.

The song's chorus, with its repetitive call to 'dance, dance, dance,' suggests a desperate attempt to feel good and alive, even if just for a fleeting moment. The woman in the song is portrayed as someone who is in control of her own pleasure, unapologetically seeking out what makes her feel good, despite the societal norms that might judge her actions. The use of the word 'voyeur' itself is telling, as it implies a sense of watching and being watched, a duality that adds depth to her character. She is both the observer and the observed, finding a strange comfort in this dual role.

Carnes' portrayal of the woman is both empathetic and critical. On one hand, there is an understanding of her need for escapism and the lengths she goes to find it. On the other hand, there is a subtle critique of the isolation and emptiness that such behavior can lead to. The line 'where love is still alive, it's just locked up inside' poignantly captures the essence of her predicament. Love and connection are not absent from her life; they are simply inaccessible, trapped within the confines of her own mind and the walls she has built around herself.