And I Think Of You

Tanita Tikaram's song "And I Think Of You" is a poignant exploration of memory, longing, and the enduring presence of a past love. The lyrics are a tapestry of moments where the narrator is constantly reminded of someone significant, even in the most mundane activities. The repetition of the phrase "I think of you" underscores the inescapable nature of these memories, suggesting that the person occupies a permanent space in the narrator's mind and heart.

The song's narrative unfolds through a series of everyday scenes—walking home, being called by someone else, and even in the quiet moments of reflection. These instances are imbued with a sense of nostalgia and melancholy, as the narrator grapples with the absence of the person they are thinking about. The line "I don't know where your days are spent, your lovers and your friends" highlights a sense of distance and separation, yet there is a certainty that the other person is also thinking of the narrator. This mutual, albeit unspoken, connection adds a layer of complexity to the emotions being expressed.

Tikaram's lyrical style is both simple and profound, capturing the essence of longing and the bittersweet nature of memories. The recurring motif of thinking about the person in various contexts—while walking, in the shadows, and even in breathing—suggests that these memories are an integral part of the narrator's existence. The song also touches on themes of freedom and the constraints of life, as seen in the lines "Forgive them if they never find their freedom." This could imply that both individuals are trapped in their own circumstances, unable to fully move on or find liberation from their past.

"And I Think Of You" is a beautiful meditation on the power of memory and the enduring impact of love. It speaks to the universal experience of holding onto someone who has left a lasting imprint on our lives, making it a deeply relatable and emotionally resonant piece.