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kottke.org posts about Sonora Jha

New Jolene Lyrics

I’ve always been intrigued by the “Jolene” lyrics (are they mature or are they insane?), so I was excited to hear Beyoncé’s version. Ultimately those lyrics didn’t really speak to me, but then I came across novelist Sonora Jha’s twist on the “Jolene” lyrics on Instagram, and I felt an itch had been scratched. I’ve transcribed those lyrics below — her original post is here.

(With apologies to Dolly and Beyoncé)

Jolene Jolene Jolene Jolene

I’m watchin’ you move in on my man

Jolene Jolene Jolene Jolene

I’m sayin you should say “I think I can”

You’re beautiful beyond compare

I hope you’ll pardon while I stare

Just wonderin’ what moisturizer you wear, Jolene

But good for you, oh good for you

You can have my man and my children too

Jolene

Don’t get me wrong, I love my man I love those kids as hard I can

But some days I could just, you know what I mean

Jolene

And if my man’s that easy to take

You can have him and also eat your cake Jolene

Jolene Jolene Jolene Jolene

I’m livin’ my best life and wish the same for you

Jolene

You freed up my every other weekend

For me to spend with my supercool friends

I love how you stepmom my kids, Jolene

I hope he’s showerin’ love on you

The way I tried to teach him to

You’re welcome, you’re welcome, you Queen Jolene

You say you don’t want him no more

But please don’t leave him at my door

Just tell me where to Venmo you, Jolene

Jolene Jolene Jolene Jolene

You could have your choice of men

And I’m wonderin’ if I’ll bother to love again

So l’II do me and you do you Jolene

Jolene Jolene Jolene Jolene

The kids are grown and happy too

I love how you found a better boo

Let’s all just move on, okay, please, Jolene

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