The Reflex

Duran Duran's 'The Reflex' is a song that encapsulates the enigmatic nature of human instincts and the complexities of interpreting them. The lyrics suggest a scenario where someone is at a crossroads, facing decisions that could lead to risk or reward. The repeated lines 'Why don't you use it? Try not to bruise it. Buy time don't lose it' seem to encourage the listener to take advantage of an opportunity, to be cautious not to damage it, and to wisely manage time. This could be interpreted as advice for navigating life's challenges and making the most of the chances one gets.

The chorus of the song introduces 'The reflex' as a 'lonely child' waiting by the park, which could symbolize innocence or potential waiting to be realized. It is also described as a 'door to finding treasure in the dark,' suggesting that instinctual responses can lead to valuable discoveries or insights, even in uncertain or difficult situations. The notion that 'every little thing the reflex does must be answered with a question mark' implies that our gut reactions are often not straightforward and can leave us with more questions than answers.

The song's bridge, 'I'm on a ride and I want to get off, but they won't slow down the round-about,' conveys a sense of being caught in a situation that is out of control, perhaps a metaphor for life's relentless pace. Selling the radio and TV set could symbolize a desire to disconnect from external influences and focus on one's inner voice or instincts. The song's upbeat tempo and catchy chorus belie the depth of its lyrics, which delve into the human psyche and the role of instinct in our lives.