Soul Boy

Black Box Recorder's song 'Soul Boy' delves into the complex dynamics of manipulation and control within a relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a narrator who is meticulously 'grooming' a young, shy individual, referred to as the 'soul boy.' The term 'grooming' here is laden with connotations of manipulation and control, suggesting a deliberate and calculated effort to shape and influence the soul boy's behavior and emotions. The repeated emphasis on the soul boy's youth and shyness highlights his vulnerability, making him an easy target for the narrator's machinations.

The metaphor of playing pool is cleverly woven throughout the song, symbolizing the strategic and calculated nature of the narrator's actions. Phrases like 'Top pocket, I'll try a trick shot' and 'Side pocket, move out the way' suggest a game where the narrator is in control, skillfully maneuvering the soul boy to achieve her desired outcome. The pool game serves as a metaphor for the power dynamics at play, with the narrator positioning herself as the teacher and the soul boy as the student, further emphasizing the imbalance in their relationship.

The chorus reinforces the theme of control and manipulation, with lines like 'I'll teach you all, you need to know' and 'This is how it goes' underscoring the narrator's authoritative role. The soul boy is depicted as a passive participant, being led and taught by the narrator, who is intent on molding him to her liking. The juxtaposition of the soul boy's youth and the narrator's experience creates a stark contrast, highlighting the predatory nature of the relationship. Through 'Soul Boy,' Black Box Recorder explores the darker aspects of human relationships, shedding light on the ways in which power and control can be wielded to manipulate and dominate others.