Sanctuary

Joji's 'Sanctuary' is a poignant exploration of love and longing, wrapped in a soundscape that blends melancholy with a sense of hope. The song delves into the theme of seeking comfort and solace in another person, who becomes a sanctuary amid life's chaos. Joji, known for his emotive music that often touches on themes of love, heartache, and introspection, uses his distinctive voice to convey a deep yearning for connection and understanding.

The lyrics of 'Sanctuary' paint a picture of a clandestine meeting place, possibly a metaphor for the secret spaces we share with those we love. Phrases like 'Go ahead and park after dark' and 'Motel halls, neon walls' suggest a hidden, almost forbidden rendezvous, where the protagonist and their love interest can escape the world. The line 'When you lay alone, I ache' reveals the empathy and deep emotional bond the singer feels, highlighting the intensity of their desire to be with the other person, to the point of feeling their loneliness as their own.

However, 'Sanctuary' is not just a simple love song. It's about the realization that love doesn't have to be perfect or divine ('But an angel ain't what I need'). Instead, it's about finding someone who aligns with your desires and offers sincerity. The sanctuary Joji refers to is a person who provides a sense of peace and safety, a refuge from the outside world. The song's chorus, 'If you've been waiting for falling in love / Babe, you don't have to wait on me,' suggests a self-awareness and a reluctance to promise fairy-tale romance, yet there's a commitment to provide something 'so real.' The closing lines, 'Hold me, oh, so close / 'Cause you never know / Just how long our lives will be,' serve as a reminder of life's fragility and the importance of cherishing the connections we have.