BROKEN NEEDLE

Marilyn Manson's 'BROKEN NEEDLE' delves into themes of pain, disillusionment, and self-destruction. The song opens with a haunting invitation to close one's eyes and escape into a dream, suggesting a temporary reprieve from the harsh realities of life. The imagery of rinsing off pain and makeup hints at the facade people often wear to hide their true suffering. The line 'Apples are always something to fear' could be a reference to the biblical story of Adam and Eve, symbolizing the inherent danger in seeking forbidden knowledge or truth.

The recurring question 'Are you alright? 'Cause I'm not okay' underscores a sense of shared despair and the futility of fighting for lies. This sentiment is echoed in the chorus, where Manson likens himself to a needle, a metaphor for something that causes pain and leaves scars. The needle digs into grooves, scratching and damaging, only to be put away, symbolizing a cycle of self-inflicted harm and temporary relief.

The song also alludes to the fairy tale of Sleeping Beauty with the lines 'It won't be death but a deep sleep, a curse of a hundred years.' This reference to a long, enchanted slumber suggests a desire to escape reality for an extended period, perhaps as a way to avoid confronting painful truths. The repetition of 'I'll never ever play you again' at the end of the song signifies a finality, a decision to break free from this destructive cycle, even if it means putting away a part of oneself forever.

'BROKEN NEEDLE' is a powerful exploration of inner turmoil and the struggle to find authenticity in a world filled with deception. Manson's raw and evocative lyrics invite listeners to confront their own pain and the masks they wear, ultimately questioning whether the lies we live are worth the fight.