When We Lie
Anything Box
The Paradox of Shared Deception in 'When We Lie'
Anything Box's song 'When We Lie' delves into the complex dynamics of relationships, particularly focusing on the paradoxical nature of shared deception. The lyrics suggest a deep connection between two individuals who are acutely aware of each other's inner worlds. The opening lines, 'I look to you / And I see that you're aware,' set the stage for a relationship built on mutual understanding, yet tinged with a sense of hidden truths and unspoken realities.
The recurring theme of lying together 'all the time' introduces a paradox. On one hand, lying is generally perceived as a negative act that erodes trust. On the other hand, the song portrays it as a shared experience that somehow binds the couple closer. The line 'The future's mine' implies a sense of control or ownership over what lies ahead, suggesting that the act of lying together creates a unique, albeit flawed, bond that shapes their future.
The song also touches on themes of loneliness and broken dreams, which are described as shared experiences. This shared suffering seems to create a deeper connection between the two, as evidenced by the lines 'The loneliness and the broken dreams / that's what we're going to share.' The repetition of 'When we lie' throughout the song emphasizes the cyclical nature of their relationship, where deception and truth are intertwined in a complex dance. Ultimately, 'When We Lie' explores the intricate balance between honesty and deception, and how these elements coexist in the fabric of human relationships.