"Call Me Guilty" by Jazmine Sullivan is a powerful and emotional song that tells the story of a woman, Jazmine, who is trapped in an abusive relationship. The song begins with a dialogue between Jazmine and her mother. Jazmine reveals that her partner has physically assaulted her once again, and she expresses her desire to retaliate and even to kill him. Her mother tries to calm her down and urges her to leave the abusive relationship and come home. However, Jazmine feels that she cannot leave because she believes that her partner will kill her if she tries to escape. In the first verse, Jazmine reflects on her situation and contemplates whether it is worth taking drastic measures to protect herself. She considers using a gun to change her life by taking her partner's life. Jazmine feels that this act may be her only option to end the cycle of abuse and violence. She acknowledges the severity of her situation and how it has escalated over time. The chorus emphasizes Jazmine's determination and decision to take action. She realizes that there is no turning back and is on the run, fearing the police will catch her. Despite the potential consequences, she declares that she is not sorry for what she has done because it was necessary for her survival. Jazmine yearns for understanding and sympathy from others who might judge her actions. In the second verse, Jazmine reveals that she has taken the life of her abusive partner. She reflects on the difficulty she faced in making this decision and justifies it as a means of self-defense and avenging the suffering she endured. Jazmine also acknowledges the experiences of other women who have been victims of abuse, encouraging them not to believe in empty promises of change from their abusers. In the third verse, Jazmine describes the aftermath of her actions. She is ready to leave but is interrupted by the arrival of the police, who read her rights and arrest her. Jazmine asserts her right to stay alive, implying that she took matters into her own hands to protect herself. Despite the consequences she now faces, Jazmine asserts that she would do it again to save her own life. Overall, "Call Me Guilty" is a deeply emotional and thought-provoking song that opens up a discussion about the complex issues surrounding domestic violence, self-defense, and the challenges faced by victims of abuse. It sheds light on the desperation and profound impact that abusive relationships can have on individuals, while also highlighting the difficult choices victims may have to make for their own survival.
