Control

Broken Bells' song 'Control' delves into the transient nature of life and the futility of trying to maintain control over it. The lyrics begin by describing a relationship that started as a game, using pleasure and pain as tools to reach new heights. However, the realization soon dawns that these methods are not sustainable. The line 'Nothing's permanent in life' underscores the central theme of impermanence, suggesting that clinging too tightly to anything is ultimately futile.

The chorus, with its repeated exhortation to 'give it up,' serves as a poignant reminder that control is an illusion. The phrase 'You lost control cause nothing stays around too long' encapsulates the idea that everything is fleeting, and the more one tries to hold on, the more one loses. This sentiment is echoed in the second verse, where the changes in the relationship are described as inevitable and transformative. The heart 'spread, rearranged' signifies emotional upheaval, and the act of taking off clothes symbolizes vulnerability and the mistaken belief that physical intimacy equates to love.

The song's message is clear: the need for control is a never-ending cycle that leads to dissatisfaction. By urging listeners to 'give it up,' Broken Bells advocate for a more accepting and flexible approach to life's uncertainties. The song's melancholic yet liberating tone encourages embracing change and letting go of the need to control every aspect of one's life. This perspective is not only relevant on a personal level but also resonates with broader existential themes, making 'Control' a thought-provoking piece that challenges listeners to reconsider their approach to life's impermanence.