The song "Jesse" by Carly Simon is about a woman named Annie who is warning the narrator, presumably Carly herself, about a man named Jesse who has returned to town. The narrator expresses her determination not to be affected by him, refusing to do things for him like cutting fresh flowers, making the wine cold, changing the sheets, or waiting by the phone. However, despite her efforts to distance herself from Jesse, she still longs for him and admits that she will always be willing to do these things for him.

Meaning of "Jesse" by Carly Simon

The lyrics of "Jesse" delve into the conflicted emotions and desires associated with love and heartbreak. The song portrays a woman who has been hurt by Jesse in the past and is desperately trying to maintain her resilience and independence in his presence. She wants to protect herself from further heartache and is determined not to be drawn back into his control. The repetition of her refusal to do things for him, such as cutting fresh flowers, making the wine cold, and changing the sheets, reflects her resolve to separate herself from the emotional entanglement he represents. However, despite her best intentions, she confesses that she still longs for him and will always be willing to do these things for him. The lyrics also highlight the contrast between her inner desire for Jesse and the need to maintain a strong facade for her friends, who believe she has moved on and questioned her choices. Ultimately, "Jesse" explores the complexity of love and the struggle to reconcile one's own desires with the fear of being hurt again.