Bad Habits (feat. Bring Me The Horizon)
Ed Sheeran
The Allure and Consequences of Bad Habits
Ed Sheeran's collaboration with Bring Me The Horizon in 'Bad Habits' delves into the cyclical nature of self-destructive behaviors and their inevitable consequences. The song opens with a sense of helplessness, as Sheeran admits his inability to resist certain temptations whenever they present themselves. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the temporary euphoria these habits bring, likening it to a fleeting paradise before everything falls apart. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the emotional and psychological toll these habits take on him.
The chorus is a powerful confession of the repetitive and isolating nature of these bad habits. Sheeran describes late nights that end in solitude, meaningless conversations with strangers, and a loss of control over his actions and words. The line 'I got nothin' left to lose, or use, or do' underscores a sense of resignation and emptiness, highlighting how these habits have stripped him of purpose and direction. The collaboration with Bring Me The Horizon adds a raw, almost desperate energy to the song, amplifying the sense of urgency and despair.
As the song progresses, Sheeran reflects on the initial allure of these habits, which often start with good intentions and a desire for excitement. However, he acknowledges that these moments of joy are short-lived, quickly giving way to darkness and regret. The repeated phrase 'my bad habits lead to you' suggests a personification of these habits, making them seem like an inescapable entity that he is drawn to despite knowing the negative outcomes. The song concludes with a sense of inevitability, as Sheeran admits that despite his best efforts, he is unable to break free from this destructive cycle.