Meaning of "Josephine" by Tori Amos

"Josephine" delves into the complexities of decision-making and the weight of the past on the present. The repeated refrain of "Not tonight, Josephine" suggests a sense of resistance or hesitation towards moving forward, as if held back by memories or unresolved emotions represented by Josephine. This character named Josephine could be symbolic of a past relationship or a haunting memory that lingers in the speaker's mind, making it difficult to fully embrace the present or make decisions about the future. The references to beautiful places like the Seine and Vienna contrast sharply with images of destruction like Moscow burning, reflecting the internal conflict within the speaker's mind. The choice between advancing or not advancing mirrors the speaker's inner turmoil, torn between moving forward and being held back by the past. Overall, "Josephine" explores themes of internal struggle, memory, and the haunting nature of past experiences on current decision-making.