Success

Interpol's song 'Success' delves into the complex and often contradictory nature of achieving one's goals. The lyrics open with 'Dreams of long life,' suggesting a yearning for longevity and stability. However, this desire is immediately juxtaposed with the question, 'What safety can you find?' This sets the tone for the song, highlighting the uncertainty and elusive nature of true security and success. The imagery of the 'great unknown' and 'shape for miles' evokes a sense of vast, uncharted territory, symbolizing the unpredictable journey toward success.

The recurring line, 'I'm a good guy,' serves as a self-affirmation, perhaps indicating the artist's struggle to maintain integrity while navigating the complexities of life and success. The mention of reading papers 'before crime would pay' suggests a time of innocence or moral clarity, contrasting with the present where the artist has 'learned to bury most things.' This could imply the compromises and secrets that come with success, as further emphasized by the lines, 'I've got two secrets, but I only told you one.' The duality of having secrets and the reluctance to reveal them underscores the hidden costs and moral ambiguities associated with success.

The repeated plea, 'Somebody make me say no,' reflects an internal conflict and a desire for external guidance or restraint. This could be interpreted as a cry for help in maintaining one's values and resisting the temptations that come with success. The song concludes with the repeated assertion, 'I'm not supposed to show you,' reinforcing the theme of hidden truths and the pressure to maintain a facade. Interpol's 'Success' ultimately paints a nuanced picture of achievement, filled with contradictions, moral dilemmas, and the ever-present tension between public perception and private reality.