Introduction
ABBA – I Can Be That Woman: A Song of Love, Loss, and Redemption
“I Can Be That Woman” marks a significant departure from ABBA’s usual upbeat and poppy sound. Released in 2021 on their comeback album “Voyage,” the song delves into a mature and introspective exploration of a troubled relationship.
While the full inspiration behind the lyrics remains unconfirmed, Björn Ulvaeus, one of ABBA’s songwriters, has hinted at a possible connection to their own personal experiences. Both Ulvaeus and his songwriting partner Benny Andersson went through divorces in the 1980s. This biographical context suggests the song might grapple with feelings of regret, missed chances, and the yearning to rebuild a broken connection.
Thematically, “I Can Be That Woman” centers on a couple grappling with the fallout of a deteriorating relationship. The lyrics paint a picture of arguments, emotional exhaustion, and a sense of lost potential in both partners (“You’re not the man you should have been / I let you down somehow”).
However, a glimmer of hope emerges. The female protagonist, sung by Agnetha Fältskog, expresses a newfound determination to change. She recognizes her own shortcomings and acknowledges the toxicity of the dynamic (“This is how all our fights have begun”). Yet, with a newfound resolve, she declares, “But I can be that woman now.” This shift suggests a willingness to break free from unhealthy patterns and become the best version of herself, perhaps even reigniting the love within the relationship.
“I Can Be That Woman” stands out in ABBA’s discography for its raw vulnerability and emotional depth. It’s a song that resonates with anyone who has ever loved and lost, reminding us that even in the face of heartbreak, there’s always the possibility of growth and the chance to become the person we’re meant to be.