Upon hearing the song for the first time, it is almost inevitable to expect lyrics about love but the love Joji is speaking to is not one that is commonplace. It evokes memories of a retro love ballad from the time of our parents - but with an updated and modern twist. Intimacy can be defined as closeness or familiarity comfort borne out of being around another human being which can lead to strong friendships, romantic encounters, and even long-term relationships.Īs listeners, the first thing we hear is a dark, romantic, almost 80’s synth-pop beat that creates a palpable mood for the entire song. But, before speaking about the lyrics and the song itself, it’s important to define what an intimate connection is.
![joji slow dancing in the dark joji slow dancing in the dark](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/344EwnbB5p4/maxresdefault.jpg)
Through the lyrics and a video he posted on YouTube explaining the lyrics, one can tell that George Miller (Joji’s real name) is speaking from his own personal experience. Slow Dancing in the Dark is a lovesick ode to a dying relationship. Joji invariably tows the line between self destructive, poisonous and toxic relationships and real, heartfelt love. I don’t want a friend (Just one more night) I want my life in two (My life in two) Please one more night Waiting to get there Waiting for you (Waiting for you) Just one more night I’m done fighting all night When I’m around slow dancing in the dark Don’t follow me, you’ll end up in my arms You done made up your mind I don’t need no more signs Can you? Can you? Give me reasons we should be complete You should be with him, I can’t compete You looked at me like I was someone else, oh well Can’t you see? (Can’t you see?) I don’t wanna slow dance (I don’t wanna slow dance) In the dark, dark When you gotta run Just hear my voice in you (My voice in you) Shutting me out you (Shutting me out) Doing so great (So great, so great) You Used to be the one to hold you when you fall Yeah, yeah, yeah (When you fall, when you fall) I don’t f***with your tone (I don’t f*** with your tone) I don’t wanna go home (I don’t wanna go home) Can it be one night? Can you? Can you? Give me reasons we should be complete You should be with him, I can’t compete You looked at me like I was someone else, oh well Can’t you see? I don’t wanna slow dance (I don’t wanna slow dance) In the dark, dark In the dark, darkġ) How does this love song speak to the desire we have to form intimate connections?Ĭreating meaningful relationships is one of the great joys in life, and no connection is as intimate as the one shared between lovers.
![joji slow dancing in the dark joji slow dancing in the dark](https://images.genius.com/c40fc34f7d062bc9bd454a6d786a2adf.1000x333x1.jpg)
An Essay on Joji’s “Slow Dancing in the Dark”