The Joy Formidable's song "Absence" explores the emotions and longing that arise when something or someone important is missing from one's life. The lyrics express the narrator's feelings of sadness and longing for something they can't seem to get right. This brings them down for a long time until the person they miss leaves in a positive, sunny manner. The narrator is depicted standing at the window, desperately hoping for a wave from the person they miss. They acknowledge that they are caught up in their own emotions and understand that it's a sad situation. However, they also realize that the absence is all they had, indicating that the bittersweet feeling of longing is the only connection they have with the person or thing they miss. The lyrics also touch upon the sentimental purrs that keep the narrator dreaming about the world. These purrs represent the small, comforting moments that the narrator holds onto, even though they can't fully satisfy their longing. The feelings this absence creates are intense, and the narrator questions what they are truly feeling and why they can't shake it. In the end, the narrator claims to understand what the absence means and the importance of the person or thing they miss. The repetition of the line "Now I know what this means, I know what you mean to me" suggests a realization or a deepening of their understanding of the significance of this absence. Overall, "Absence" by The Joy Formidable tells a story of longing, longing for someone or something that is absent from our lives and the complex emotions it brings. The lyrics convey a sense of both sadness and appreciation, acknowledging the impact of this absence and the depth of what it means to the narrator.
