Joy
PJ Harvey · Is This Desire? [1998]
A life un-wed
Thirty years old
Never danced a step
She would have left these red hills far behind if not for her condition
"Would have left these red hills far behind if not for my condition"
Pitiful Joy
She looked away
Into a hollow sky
Came face to face
With her own innocence surrounding her until it never was a question
Innocence so suffocating, now she cannot move, no question
No hope for Joy
No hope or faith
She wanted to go blind
Wanted hope to stay
"I've been believing in nothing since I was born, it never was a
question."
Joy
PJ Harvey's 'Joy' stands as a defining track from the 1998 album Is This Desire?, capturing the raw, atmospheric tension of her mid-career work. The song exemplifies her signature blend of gothic rock and experimental pop, utilizing haunting vocals and driving rhythms to explore themes of emotional volatility and desire. Released during a period where Harvey was refining her sound beyond the post-punk revival of the early 90s, the recording showcases her ability to create immersive sonic landscapes that prioritize mood over conventional structure. As a key component of her discography, 'Joy' remains a staple for fans seeking the intense, evocative quality of her work from the late 90s, reflecting her continued evolution as a formidable force in alternative music.