Johanna

Suki Waterhouse's song 'Johanna' delves into the complexities of unrequited love and the emotional turmoil that accompanies it. The repetitive lines 'Can't find you, where are you?' set the tone for the song, emphasizing a sense of longing and confusion. This repetition mirrors the obsessive nature of the narrator's feelings, highlighting their inability to move past their infatuation with Johanna. The lyrics suggest a deep yearning for someone who remains out of reach, creating a poignant narrative of desire and frustration.

The song's narrative unfolds through a series of vivid memories and emotional confessions. The narrator recalls moments of intimacy and connection, such as meeting for breakfast and sharing secrets, which only deepen their infatuation. However, these moments are tinged with a sense of unattainability, as the narrator admits, 'Only want her cause I can't have her.' This line encapsulates the paradox of desire, where the unattainable becomes even more desirable precisely because it is out of reach. The mention of 'electric lights' and 'lucky strikes' evokes a sense of fleeting, almost surreal experiences that leave the narrator both exhilarated and confused.

As the song progresses, the narrator grapples with their identity and the impact of their unreciprocated feelings. The repeated question, 'Who am I?' underscores a crisis of self, as the narrator's sense of self-worth becomes entangled with their longing for Johanna. The song concludes on a bittersweet note, acknowledging Johanna's 'happy ending' while the narrator remains mired in their unfulfilled desire. This ending highlights the painful reality of unrequited love, where one person's happiness can amplify another's sense of loss and longing.