What Went Wrong?
blink-182
Heartbreak and Anguish: The Emotional Turmoil in 'What Went Wrong?' by blink-182
In 'What Went Wrong?' by blink-182, the lyrics delve into the raw and unfiltered emotions of heartbreak and betrayal. The song captures the essence of a relationship that has gone awry, leaving the protagonist grappling with feelings of loss, anger, and confusion. The opening lines express a deep frustration with the constant reminder of sadness through songs on the radio, highlighting the protagonist's sensitivity and the pervasive sense of loneliness that follows a breakup.
The song's narrative continues with a poignant reflection on shared memories that have now turned sour. The mention of 'our favorite restaurant,' 'our favorite movie,' and 'our favorite show' underscores the depth of the relationship and the pain of losing those cherished moments. The protagonist's inability to forgive or forget, coupled with the repeated question 'What went wrong?' reveals a struggle to understand the reasons behind the relationship's demise. The accusatory tone in 'You fucked up my life' indicates a sense of betrayal and the impact of the breakup on the protagonist's emotional well-being.
The chorus amplifies the intensity of these emotions, with the protagonist feeling trapped in a 'cursed' and 'plagued' place, unable to escape the memories and the pain. The imagery of the heart exploding symbolizes the overwhelming nature of the heartbreak. The song concludes with a fierce expression of anger and defiance, as the protagonist kicks out at the world around them, still seeking answers to what went wrong. blink-182's punk rock style, characterized by its raw energy and emotional honesty, perfectly complements the themes of heartbreak and disillusionment in this song.