Meaning of "Stranger To Myself" by Jude Cole

"Stranger To Myself" by Jude Cole delves into the idea of how a powerful attraction to someone can lead to losing oneself in the process. The speaker is mesmerized by the woman's unique aura and sinister charm, feeling a sense of disorientation and alienation from his own identity as a result. The contrast between the woman and other women in L.A. highlights her enigmatic and captivating qualities, making her stand out in the speaker's eyes. The imagery of the dark, dingy stairwell and the reference to the dark ink in her heart symbolize the allure of the forbidden and dangerous. The repeated chorus emphasizes the idea of the speaker being a "stranger to myself" since meeting her, suggesting an internal struggle and loss of self-identity in the face of overwhelming desire. Ultimately, the song captures the intoxicating effect of meeting someone who challenges and changes one's perspective on oneself and the world.