Wicked As It Seems

Keith Richards' song 'Wicked As It Seems' delves into the complexities and dualities of a tumultuous relationship. The lyrics paint a picture of a love that is both alluring and destructive, capturing the essence of a bond that has run its course but still holds a magnetic pull. The phrase 'just as wicked as it seems' suggests that the relationship is as harmful and intense as it appears on the surface, with no hidden layers of gentleness or redemption. This duality is further emphasized by the line 'better of two evils,' indicating a choice between two undesirable options, reflecting the internal conflict and resignation felt by the narrator.

The song's narrative reveals a sense of entrapment and frustration. The repeated plea 'why don't you get - get all over me' can be interpreted as a cry for attention or a desire to rekindle the passion that once existed. However, the acknowledgment that 'it's a two-way street, but now it goes one way' highlights the imbalance and one-sided effort in the relationship. The metaphor of a 'two-way street' turning into a 'one-way' road symbolizes the loss of mutual effort and communication, leading to a sense of no escape for the narrator.

Richards' use of metaphors like 'soften the blow, so the bruises don't show' and 'used your deck, all I did was play the cards' adds depth to the song, illustrating the emotional and psychological games played within the relationship. The expertise in hiding the pain and the realization that 'it's not enough for me' underscores the narrator's growing awareness of their own needs and the insufficiency of the current situation. The song ultimately captures the bittersweet reality of a love that is both intoxicating and damaging, leaving the listener with a profound sense of the complexities of human relationships.