Glass

Joy Division's song 'Glass' delves into the vulnerability and pressures faced by young hearts. The repeated phrase 'Hearts fail, young hearts fail' underscores the fragility of youth, suggesting that young people are particularly susceptible to emotional and physical strain. The lyrics 'Anytime, pressurised, overheat, overtired' paint a vivid picture of the relentless pressures that can lead to burnout and exhaustion. This imagery is further emphasized by the repetitive nature of the song, mirroring the cyclical and often overwhelming nature of these pressures.

The lines 'Take it quick, take it neat, clasp your hands, touch your feet' suggest a sense of urgency and a need for quick fixes or coping mechanisms. This could be interpreted as a commentary on how young people often seek immediate relief from their struggles, sometimes resorting to unhealthy or temporary solutions. The repetition of 'Do it again and again and again' highlights the repetitive and sometimes futile nature of these attempts to cope, as if trapped in a cycle of trying and failing to find lasting relief.

The song also touches on the theme of regret with the lines 'Don't you wish you'd do it again?' This could be interpreted as a reflection on missed opportunities or the desire to go back and make different choices. The repetition of this question suggests a lingering sense of what could have been, adding a layer of melancholy to the song. Joy Division's post-punk style, characterized by its raw and emotive delivery, amplifies the song's themes of vulnerability, pressure, and regret, making 'Glass' a poignant exploration of the struggles faced by young people.