New Invention
I DON'T KNOW HOW BUT THEY FOUND ME
The Struggle for Control in 'New Invention'
In 'New Invention,' I DON'T KNOW HOW BUT THEY FOUND ME (often abbreviated as iDKHOW) delves into themes of manipulation, control, and the struggle for autonomy. The song's protagonist feels trapped and controlled by an external force, metaphorically described as having 'the devil on your shoulder.' This imagery suggests a constant, malevolent influence that dictates their actions and thoughts, leading to a sense of powerlessness and the need to break free from this toxic hold, likened to a 'bad addiction.'
The recurring motif of 'bad dreams' underscores the mental and emotional turmoil experienced by the protagonist. These nightmares symbolize the inescapable anxiety and fear that plague them, even when they are supposed to find peace in sleep. Despite the 'good intentions' of the controlling figure, the protagonist remains tormented, highlighting the disconnect between intention and impact. The line 'the girl is like an architect, and I am just a new invention' further emphasizes the power dynamics at play, with the protagonist feeling like a mere creation or tool in the hands of someone else, devoid of their own agency.
The song also touches on themes of identity and the struggle to maintain one's sense of self. The line 'you've got to choose between your faces' suggests a conflict between different personas or roles that the controlling figure must navigate, possibly hinting at their own internal struggles. The protagonist's declaration of 'losing control' and the repeated assertion of being 'just a new invention' reflect a deep-seated frustration and a yearning for liberation from these imposed identities and expectations. Through its vivid metaphors and evocative lyrics, 'New Invention' captures the complex emotions of feeling manipulated and the desperate desire to reclaim one's autonomy.