Susie May

Song Meaning

Beabadoobee's "Susie May" isn't just a song; it's a fragmented mirror reflecting the disjunction between outward presentation and internal turmoil. The track's core revolves around Susie May, a figure who, on the surface, seems to navigate the world with a semblance of normalcy—going out at nine, thinking of things she likes. But beneath this facade lies a deeper truth: "Susie May forgets she's not okay." This line is the linchpin to understanding the song's meaning; it speaks to the dissociative tendencies we often employ to cope with underlying pain. Susie May represents anyone who masks their struggles, perhaps even fooling themselves in the process. The repeated question, "And does she know it's not fine that she cries at night?" underscores a profound disconnect. Is Susie May aware of her own suffering? Or is she so adept at masking that she's lost touch with her emotional reality? The aversion to flying, “It's not alright that she hates to fly,” acts as a potent metaphor. Flying, often associated with freedom and escape, becomes an anxiety-inducing act for Susie May. This could represent a fear of vulnerability, a reluctance to fully embrace life's possibilities due to underlying anxieties. The lyrics suggest an attempt to project an image of well-being (“And I'm alright, don't you see?”), juxtaposed against the stark reality of "1 AM with swollen eyes." This stark contrast highlights the internal battle—the performance of 'okayness' versus the raw, unfiltered emotion experienced in private. It's a portrait of someone caught in a cycle of denial and suppressed emotion. Ultimately, "Susie May" is a poignant exploration of emotional repression and the yearning for self-awareness. Beabadoobee crafts a character study that resonates with anyone who has ever felt the pressure to appear 'fine' despite their inner struggles. The song's repetition reinforces the cyclical nature of this struggle, the constant push and pull between outward presentation and inward truth. The plea, "Susie May, you're not okay / Time to find your way," serves as both a diagnosis and a call to action, urging listeners, and perhaps Susie May herself, to confront their pain and embark on a journey toward healing.