Control

Kevin Garrett's song "Control" delves into the emotional turmoil of breaking free from a past relationship that once held significant power over him. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of loneliness and the struggle to move on, as the protagonist finds himself in familiar places, yet feeling completely isolated. The line "Everything's alone, it's just the way I left" suggests a sense of stagnation and the difficulty of escaping the shadows of a former life. The recurring theme of control is evident, as the protagonist reflects on how the other person once had a strong influence over him, but now he is determined to reclaim his autonomy.

The song also explores the complexity of emotions tied to the past. Garrett uses religious imagery, such as "Father, Son and Holy Ghost," to emphasize the depth of the connection and the difficulty of letting go. The lyrics suggest a sense of betrayal and the lingering impact of the relationship, as seen in the lines "Far back in my memory I hear your words / But somehow someone's poisoned me and now they're cursed." This metaphorical poisoning indicates the lasting negative effects of the past relationship on the protagonist's psyche.

As the song progresses, the protagonist's resolve to move forward becomes more apparent. Despite the pain and confusion, he acknowledges his strength and resilience, singing, "As hard as you can try, this heart of mine won't break." The imagery of rotten leaves and choking stems further illustrates the suffocating nature of the past, but also hints at the possibility of new growth and renewal. Ultimately, the protagonist seeks closure and the freedom to leave the past behind, recognizing that the other person's control over him is a thing of the past.