How Villains Are Made

Madalen Duke's song "How Villains Are Made" delves into the complex and often murky process of becoming a villain. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a protagonist caught in a moral quagmire, where the lines between right and wrong are blurred. The repeated question of "Whose side I'm on?" underscores the confusion and internal conflict faced by the character. This uncertainty is further amplified by the imagery of two indistinguishable armies, each claiming to be the truth-bearer, which symbolizes the difficulty in discerning good from evil in a world filled with deception and manipulation.

The chorus, "This is how villains are made," serves as a haunting reminder that villainy is not an inherent trait but a consequence of circumstances and choices. The song suggests that no one sets out to become a villain; rather, it is a gradual transformation fueled by betrayal, loss of sanity, and the erosion of trust. The protagonist's struggle with their own morality and the external pressures they face highlight the fragile nature of human ethics and the ease with which one can be swayed towards darkness.

The song also touches on the theme of persuasion and the power of blurred lines. The lyrics, "So easily we're persuaded when the lines are blurred and faded," reflect how societal and personal pressures can lead individuals down a path they never intended to take. This speaks to the broader human experience of grappling with moral dilemmas and the often fine line between heroism and villainy. Madalen Duke's evocative lyrics and haunting melody create a powerful narrative that resonates with anyone who has ever faced a difficult choice or felt the weight of moral ambiguity.