Don’t Let It Get You Down

Zola Jesus “I Can’t Stand”

I always wish there were more songs conveying true empathy. There’s a lot, but it’s never as much as we need. I guess that’s the case for most anything having to do with empathy, right? “I Can’t Stand” is addressed to a lonely and despondent friend. The tone is grim yet slightly uplifting, and Zola Jesus’ words and phrasing acknowledge the great difficulties of finding love and staving off depression and self-loathing , but offers hope and unconditional support. The darky, gothy feeling of the piece anchors the sentiment to a harsh reality, and the refusal to bullshit with her friend makes it all the more poignant. Her faith seems more genuine.

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