I've Been Alone Too Long
Soko
The Luminous Search for Connection in Soko's 'I've Been Alone Too Long'
Soko's song 'I've Been Alone Too Long' delves into the profound sense of loneliness and the yearning for connection. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a moment where the narrator believes they see an angel at the end of an alley. This angelic figure, glowing and floating, symbolizes an idealized form of beauty and hope. The narrator's reaction to this vision is one of paralysis, overwhelmed by the beauty and the glow of the angel, which ultimately fades away before they can approach it. This moment captures the elusive nature of connection and the fear of reaching out, which can often leave one feeling isolated and alone.
The recurring theme of searching for a father figure adds a deeper layer to the song. The narrator's quest for their father suggests a longing for guidance, stability, and perhaps a sense of identity. This search is so consuming that it prevents them from forming romantic relationships, as indicated by the repeated lines, 'I'm still looking for my father / So I cannot have a lover now.' This highlights the impact of unresolved personal issues on one's ability to connect with others and find love.
The plea to the angel to 'come to me' and 'be my precious guide' reflects a desire for enlightenment and direction. The darkness mentioned in the lyrics represents the narrator's current state of loneliness and confusion, while the angel's glow symbolizes hope and the possibility of finding light and connection. The song concludes with a sense of determination to learn and grow, despite the darkness, emphasizing the narrator's willingness to seek out and embrace the light, even if the path is unclear.