Helpless

Friendly Fires' song 'Helpless' delves into the emotional turmoil and sense of powerlessness that often accompanies unrequited love or a troubled relationship. The repetition of the word 'helpless' throughout the song underscores the persistent and inescapable nature of these feelings. The lyrics convey a sense of being trapped, as if the singer's feet are 'chained to the ground,' unable to escape the emotional weight that holds them down.

The imagery of a 'rising tide' and being pulled to the 'ocean floor' serves as a powerful metaphor for the overwhelming force of these emotions. The sea, often symbolizing vast and uncontrollable forces, represents the relentless nature of the singer's feelings. Despite their efforts to change their situation or the mind of their loved one, they find themselves continually drawn back into the depths of their emotional struggle.

The song also touches on the futility of words and actions in altering the course of these emotions. Lines like 'Words won't stop the blood from working up a storm' and 'The fix won't keep the fool from coming back for more' highlight the inevitability of returning to the same emotional state, despite attempts to move on or find solace. This cyclical nature of helplessness is a central theme, emphasizing the difficulty of breaking free from the grip of powerful emotions.

'Helpless' by Friendly Fires captures the essence of feeling trapped in a cycle of unrequited love or emotional turmoil, using vivid metaphors and repetitive lyrics to convey the depth and persistence of these feelings.