Drive
Deftones
The Emotional Journey of Dependence and Loss in Deftones' 'Drive'
Deftones' cover of 'Drive,' originally by The Cars, is a haunting rendition that encapsulates the feelings of dependence and the fear of being alone. The lyrics pose a series of rhetorical questions that reflect on who will be there for the protagonist in times of need. The repeated line 'Who's gonna drive you home tonight?' serves as a metaphor for the broader question of who will take care of you when you're unable to do so yourself. It's a poignant inquiry into the nature of support and companionship.
The song's melancholic tone suggests a deep sense of vulnerability and the human need for connection. The questions about who will be there 'when you fall,' 'pay attention to your dreams,' or 'hold you down when you shake' speak to the various ways in which we rely on others for emotional support. The repetition of 'You can't go on, thinkin' nothing's wrong' implies a state of denial or avoidance, which is ultimately unsustainable. The song conveys the message that everyone eventually needs someone to lean on, and the fear that accompanies the possibility of facing life's challenges alone.
Deftones, known for their atmospheric and often emotionally intense music, bring a unique depth to this cover. Their style adds layers of introspection and a sense of urgency to the original's more subdued new wave sound. The song becomes a reflection on the fragility of human relationships and the inevitability of change, loss, and the need for others in our journey through life.