Obsession
Animotion
The Dark Allure of Obsession in Animotion's Hit Song
Animotion's song "Obsession" delves into the intense and often unsettling nature of infatuation. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person consumed by their desire for another, to the point where it disrupts their sleep and dominates their thoughts. The repeated line, "You are an obsession, you're my obsession," underscores the relentless grip this fixation has on the narrator. This isn't a balanced or healthy relationship; it's marked by a lack of equality and a sense of possession, as highlighted by the line, "I am a possession, unopened at your feet."
The song uses powerful metaphors to convey the depth of this obsession. Comparing the object of desire to a "wild butterfly" that the narrator wants to "collect and capture" suggests a desire to control and possess something beautiful and free. This imagery evokes a sense of entrapment and the futile attempt to hold onto something that naturally resists confinement. The lyrics also reveal a darker side to this obsession, as the narrator's fantasy turns to madness, and their goodness turns to badness, indicating a moral and emotional decline driven by their unrelenting need to possess the other person.
Culturally, "Obsession" reflects the 1980s' fascination with themes of desire and control, often explored in the era's music and media. Animotion's synth-pop sound, characterized by its catchy hooks and electronic beats, complements the song's intense and somewhat eerie narrative. The song's exploration of the darker aspects of love and desire resonates with listeners, offering a cautionary tale about the dangers of letting obsession take over one's life. The repeated questioning, "Who do you want me to be to make you sleep with me," highlights the lengths to which the narrator is willing to go, sacrificing their identity and integrity in the process.