Candidate

Joy Division's 'Candidate' delves into themes of power, identity, and the disillusionment that often accompanies the pursuit of these ideals. The song opens with a sense of pressure and territoriality, suggesting a struggle for dominance or control. The protagonist feels the weight of this pressure, indicating that the pursuit of power has stripped away any pleasure or heart they once had. The lyrics 'Corrupted from memory, no longer the power' imply a loss of innocence and a sense of corruption that has crept in over time, leading to a fatalistic outlook.

The chorus, 'Please keep your distance, the trail leads to here / There's blood on your fingers brought on by fear,' suggests a sense of betrayal and fear. The protagonist feels alienated and betrayed, possibly by someone they trusted or by the system they once believed in. The imagery of blood on fingers indicates guilt and fear, hinting at the violent or morally compromising actions taken in the pursuit of power. The line 'I campaigned for nothing, I worked hard for this' reflects a sense of futility and disillusionment, as the protagonist realizes that their efforts have led to a hollow victory.

The repeated refrain 'I tried to get to you' underscores the protagonist's desperate attempts to connect or reach someone, possibly a loved one or a higher ideal. Despite their efforts, they feel rejected and misunderstood, leading to a sense of isolation. The song's melancholic tone and haunting lyrics capture the essence of Joy Division's post-punk style, characterized by its introspective and often bleak exploration of human emotions and societal issues. 'Candidate' serves as a poignant reflection on the cost of ambition and the often harsh realities of power dynamics.