Devil I Know

Suki Waterhouse's 'Devil I Know' delves into the complexities of a toxic yet familiar relationship. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love affair that is both dark and comforting. The opening lines, 'God, you got the blackest eyes / Look here all you want / I smoke out your darkest side,' set the tone for a relationship that thrives on its shadowy aspects. The metaphor of 'blackest eyes' suggests a partner with a mysterious or possibly malevolent nature, while 'smoke out your darkest side' implies a willingness to engage with and even embrace these darker elements.

The chorus, 'Back in hell, at least I'm comfortable / Need your body when my fire's cold / Hand to heart, I'm gonna stay faithful / To the devil I know,' encapsulates the central theme of the song. The phrase 'back in hell' signifies a return to a painful or destructive situation, yet the singer finds comfort in its familiarity. The repetition of 'the devil I know' underscores the idea that the singer prefers the known hardships of this relationship over the uncertainties of new ones. This sentiment is further emphasized by the line 'I'm okay with history repeating,' indicating a resigned acceptance of the cyclical nature of their relationship.

The song also explores themes of temptation and surrender. Lines like 'I don't need to feel the Sun, let me touch your skin / Taste that venom on your tongue' highlight a desire to indulge in the darker, more dangerous aspects of the relationship. The use of 'venom' as a metaphor for the partner's influence suggests a toxic but irresistible allure. The interplay of 'S and X' adds a layer of sensuality and complexity, hinting at a relationship that is both physically and emotionally consuming. Through these lyrics, Waterhouse captures the paradox of finding solace in something inherently harmful, making 'Devil I Know' a hauntingly relatable exploration of love's darker side.