Joan Armatrading's song "Alice" tells the story of a woman named Alice who is experiencing strange behavior and a disturbed mind. Despite her seemingly perfect appearance, her mind is deranged and she is trapped in a sad exchange for life. Alice yearns for a perfect day and finds solace in daydreaming. She is like a lost soul in her own version of Wonderland, acting politely but questioning whether her behavior is a result of what she truly knows or what she has invited into her life. The lyrics imply that Alice is bound by her father's will, which goes against her own desires. She refuses to conform to the lies and promises not to kill, suggesting possible internal conflicts and struggles. The song reflects on the complexities of Alice's existence, acknowledging that living is often harder than dying. It raises questions about societal expectations and personal freedom, as Alice tries to navigate her own path while grappling with her disturbed mind. Overall, "Alice" explores themes of mental health, identity, and the pressures imposed by society, painting a poignant picture of a woman's struggle to find her place and maintain her sanity in a world that can be both fascinating and daunting.
