Sampou was born in Norwalk, Connecticut. She got her start singing in Boston's Haymarket subway stop in 1985. She performed in several duos and trios, including Double Edge with Ellie Mae Higgins, but settled into a solo career after a few years.
In 2005 Les created a band, The Tin Angels, with musicians from her home state of Massachusetts. The Tin Angels plays her repertoire and expands her stylistic range, at the same time keeping a link to her themes and focus on her lyrics.
In early 2010 Les released a themed CD of recent tunes, called Lonesomeville, accompanied by a series of concert shows in traditional folk venues, such as Passim, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and additional Boston area venues in cooperation with locally well-known musicians, Taylor Amerding, Mark Cunningham, David Ogden, Andy Plaisted, Kevin Barry, Mike Dinallo and Jimmy Ryan.
Afraid Of The Dark
Les Sampou Lyrics
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You've been wondering if I'm worth the risk and if I come with a guarantee
But you've no reason to worry cuz I'm the real thing
There must be some way to prove it to you, like dropping acid on a golden ring
Tell me lover, are you feeling rattled by desire burning deep in your heart
It ain't easy waiting in the shadows when you're afraid of the dark
Innamorata, a big ol' pinyata-- bold and bald about to burst at the seams
Tell me lover, are you feeling rattled by desire burning deep in your heart
It ain't easy waiting in the shadows when you're afraid of the dark
I know you want me to fight for love
So grab your corner, Babe, the bell's gone off
I know I said I'd die for you
But you didn't say you were the firing squad
Tell me lover, are you feeling rattled by desire burning deep in your heart
It ain't easy waiting in the shadows when you're afraid of the dark
The song "Afraid of the Dark" by Les Sampou entails the singer's reassurances to a lover who seems to be doubting the authenticity of their love. The opening lines suggest that the lover might be skeptical of the singer's love, hence asking if it comes with a guarantee. The singer, however, insists that they are the real deal and wants to prove it. The use of "dropping acid on a golden ring" serves as a metaphorical way to prove the authenticity of their love. The singer then describes their love as a big belly moon hanging over the sea, innamorata, bold, and about to burst at the seams. The mention of the moon and sea can be interpreted as an expression of the vastness and intensity of their love, while the latter descriptions suggest the desire is ready to be expressed.
As the song progresses, the singer acknowledges that their lover is probably plagued by desire but is hesitant to take the next step. Using the metaphor of shadows, the singer suggests that their lover might be afraid of the dark or unknown, which makes it hard for them to take the next step. It seems as though the singer is trying to persuade their lover to abandon their fears and embrace the unknown, especially since the waiting game can only last for so long. The singer then uses boxing imagery, with the bell having gone off, to suggest that they are ready to fight for love. They insinuate that the lover's hesitancy is holding them back, yet they are willing to risk it all, even if it means facing a firing squad.
In summary, "Afraid of the Dark" explores themes of love, fear, desire, and risk-taking. The singer seems to be aware of their lover's doubts but is adamant about the authenticity of their love. They use colorful imagery and metaphors to convey the intensity of their feelings while also acknowledging the fear and hesitation that is preventing the relationship from progressing. The song ultimately suggests that love is worth fighting for, and sometimes that requires taking a risk and letting go of one's fears.
Line by Line Meaning
I know what you're thinking, it don't take a genius to see
I am aware of your thoughts and feelings; they are obvious to me
You've been wondering if I'm worth the risk and if I come with a guarantee
You are pondering whether I am worth the gamble and if I can ensure success
But you've no reason to worry cuz I'm the real thing
However, you need not fret because I am genuine and true
There must be some way to prove it to you, like dropping acid on a golden ring
Perhaps there is a way to demonstrate my authenticity to you, like testing the quality of gold with acid
Tell me lover, are you feeling rattled by desire burning deep in your heart
My dear, are you feeling unsettled by the intense longing in your heart?
It ain't easy waiting in the shadows when you're afraid of the dark
It is difficult to wait in obscurity when you are scared of uncertain circumstances
My love is like a big belly moon hanging over the sea
My love is comparable to a large, round moon hanging above the ocean
Innamorata, a big ol' pinyata-- bold and bald about to burst at the seams
Like a festive, decorative container filled with surprises, ready to burst open
I know you want me to fight for love
I am aware that you desire for me to fiercely defend our love
So grab your corner, Babe, the bell's gone off
Therefore, prepare yourself, my dear, the match has begun
I know I said I'd die for you
Although I may have promised to give my life for you
But you didn't say you were the firing squad
You did not agree to be the one to potentially end my life
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management
Written by: LESLIE ANN SAMPOU
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind