Female Vampire

Jenny Hval's 'Female Vampire' is a haunting exploration of identity, desire, and the fluidity of self. The song's lyrics are imbued with a sense of restlessness and transience, reflecting the elusive nature of the narrator's presence. The opening lines, 'Transient, restless / I'm not there, or not there yet,' set the tone for a journey that is both physical and existential. The narrator's hollow state suggests a search for meaning or fulfillment, a common theme in Hval's work, which often delves into the complexities of human experience and emotion.

The recurring phrase 'Here it comes' acts as a refrain that punctuates the song, creating a sense of anticipation and inevitability. This phrase, coupled with the imagery of vulnerability and confusion, underscores the tension between the conscious and subconscious mind. The line 'The body as a subconscious / And desire takes place somewhere, everywhere' highlights the pervasive nature of desire, suggesting that it is an intrinsic part of the human condition, manifesting in various forms and places.

Hval's use of metaphors and vivid imagery, such as 'the original crevasse' and 'the smell of Spanish wetlands,' adds layers of meaning to the song. These elements evoke a sense of place and atmosphere, grounding the abstract concepts in tangible experiences. The song's exploration of subjectivity and the shifting nature of identity is further emphasized by the line 'I'm so tired of subjectivity / I must justify my presence by losing it.' This reflects a desire to escape the confines of a fixed identity, to become something or someone else, even if only temporarily.

'Female Vampire' is a compelling meditation on the interplay between identity, desire, and the body. Hval's evocative lyrics and haunting melodies create a rich tapestry of emotions and ideas, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences of self and desire.