Who Are You?

Scarlett Johansson's song 'Who Are You?' delves into the complexities of identity, deception, and emotional turmoil. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship fraught with lies and manipulation. The opening lines, 'They're lining up / To mad dog your tilta whirl,' set the stage for a chaotic and disorienting experience, much like a carnival ride. The mention of '3 shots for a dollar / Win a real live doll' suggests a sense of cheap thrills and superficial rewards, hinting at the shallow nature of the relationship being described.

The song's protagonist reflects on the lies they once believed, expressing a desire to return them to the deceiver's 'red house,' a metaphor for a place of danger or emotional entrapment. The reference to 'Ophelia' evokes Shakespearean tragedy, symbolizing a state of confusion and despair. The repeated question, 'What did you do the last time?' underscores a sense of betrayal and a search for answers. The lyrics also explore themes of time and regret, with lines like 'Time's not your friend' and 'Do you cry / Do you pray / Do you wish them away,' highlighting the emotional aftermath of the deceit.

Johansson's lyrics further question the authenticity of the deceiver's actions and emotions. The lines 'Are you pretending to love / Well, I hear that it pays well' suggest a cynical view of love as a transactional act. The imagery of 'pistol,' 'Bible,' and 'sleeping pills' juxtaposes violence, faith, and escapism, painting a picture of a deeply conflicted individual. The song's protagonist grapples with their feelings, torn between love and the realization of the deceiver's true nature. The repeated refrain, 'Tell me who are you this time?' serves as a poignant plea for honesty and self-revelation, encapsulating the song's central theme of unmasking deception.