Meaning of "Sensation" by Bryan Ferry

The lyrics of "Sensation" explore the power of desire and how it can shape our actions and emotions. The song focuses on the thrill and excitement that can come from being tempted by someone or something. The speaker starts by acknowledging that they have never seemed to be affected by temptation and have lacked motivation in their life. However, they experience a shift when they hear someone call, which ignites a sensation within them. This sensation becomes all-consuming and dominates their thoughts and desires. The repetition of the phrase "all night long" emphasizes the intensity and duration of this longing.

The lyrics also touch on the theme of love. The speaker admits to never having been in love before, suggesting that their previous experiences have been devoid of deep emotional connection. However, this changes with the sensation they now feel. Love becomes intertwined with this newfound desire, although it is not explicitly mentioned. The idea of love as a complicated emotion is hinted at when the speaker states that they have never needed much complication. It suggests that their previous experiences lacked complexity and depth.

The song's structure and repetition contribute to its meaning. The chorus, with its repeated use of the word "Sensation," reinforces the importance of this feeling and emphasizes its transformative power. The lyrics suggest that this sensation is elusive and fleeting, as indicated by the line "There you've been and gone." This implies that the speaker has experienced the sensation, but it has disappeared, leaving them questioning whether they will ever feel it again. The repetition of the word "sensation" throughout the song creates a sense of longing and yearning, reflecting the speaker's intense desire to experience this feeling once more.

Ultimately, the lyrics of "Sensation" convey the powerful impact of desire and the longing for a certain sensation in one's life. It explores the complexities of emotion, love, and motivation, highlighting how these elements can shape and transform our experiences.