Susannah's Still Alive
The Kinks · The Singles Collection [1965]
Still wears the locket 'round her neck
She's got a picture on the table
Of a man who is young and able
Oh, Susannah's gonna cry
Oh, Susannah's still alive
Whiskey or a gin, that's alright
When there's nothing in her bed at night
She sleeps with the covers down
Hoping that somebody gets in
Doesn't matter what she does
She knows that she can't win
Oh, Susannah's gonna cry
She's got a doll with one eye,
That always cries when it gets some sleep
She's waiting for a soldier to come home
But she'll cry and never die
Oh, Susannah's gonna cry
Oh, Susannah's still alive
Whiskey or a gin, that's alright
When there's nothing in her bed at night
She sleeps with the covers down
Hoping that somebody gets in
Doesn't matter what she does
She knows that she can't win
Oh, Susannah's still alive
Oh, Susannah's gonna cry
Oh, Susannah's still alive
Oh, Susannah's still alive
About Susannah's Still Alive
The Kinks' "Susannah's Still Alive" stands as a haunting centerpiece on their 1965 singles compilation, reflecting the band's enduring fascination with biblical narratives and social commentary. Ray Davies' songwriting often wove together religious imagery with sharp observations on human nature, creating a unique blend of folk rock and pop sensibilities that defined the group's early career. While the track avoids direct quotation of scripture, it evokes the story of the woman who survived the crucifixion, using this figure to explore themes of resilience and the persistence of life amidst tragedy. The recording captures the raw energy of mid-1960s British rock, where The Kinks balanced catchy melodies with deeper, sometimes darker lyrical content. This song remains a testament to their ability to transform historical and religious motifs into relatable, emotionally resonant music that continues to resonate with listeners decades later.