Habits (Demo)
Genevieve Stokes
The Tug-of-War of Love and Habits in 'Habits (Demo)' by Genevieve Stokes
Genevieve Stokes' 'Habits (Demo)' delves into the complexities of love and the struggle to break free from ingrained patterns. The song opens with the artist lamenting her inability to overcome certain habits and the lingering presence of past lovers. This sets the stage for a narrative about emotional entanglement and the difficulty of moving on. The repetition of 'I don't know why I try anymore' underscores a sense of resignation and frustration, highlighting the cyclical nature of her struggles.
The chorus introduces the metaphor of love as oxygen, essential yet sometimes suffocating. The 'on again, off again' nature of the relationship described in the song reflects the instability and unpredictability that often accompanies deep emotional connections. Stokes' plea to be told she's wrong about her pessimistic outlook reveals a desire for reassurance and stability, even as she acknowledges the tumultuous reality of her situation.
In the latter part of the song, Stokes addresses the fear of being relegated to a 'friend of a friend' status, emphasizing her deeper understanding and connection with her partner. This fear of demotion in the relationship hierarchy speaks to a broader anxiety about losing intimacy and significance. The song's raw, introspective lyrics, combined with its haunting melody, create a poignant exploration of love, habits, and the human desire for meaningful connection.