Monster

The song 'Monster' by Meg & Dia is a haunting narrative that delves into the psyche of an abuser and his victim. The lyrics paint a chilling picture of a man who seeks love and validation through the act of violence and control. The repeated plea, 'Love me, love me,' suggests a desperate need for affection, which is tragically sought through the infliction of pain. The use of the word 'monster' to describe the abuser reflects the dual nature of his character: he is both human, craving love, and a monster, capable of committing heinous acts.

The imagery of the song is vivid and disturbing, with references to the victim being caged, bruised, and broken. The line 'Violette's wrists and then her ankles' implies a physical restraint and the loss of freedom, while 'silent pain' conveys the internal suffering of the victim. The abuser's inability to distinguish between nightmares and dreams suggests a blurred line between his twisted fantasies and the grim reality of his actions. The metaphor of the 'glass child' and 'Hannah's regrets' alludes to the fragility of the victim and the lasting impact of the trauma inflicted upon her.

The song's chorus, with its repeated question 'How should I feel?', serves as a poignant reflection on the emotional turmoil experienced by both the abuser and the victim. The 'creatures' lying in wait and looking through the windows could symbolize the ever-present threat of the abuser or the watchful eyes of society. The disturbing imagery of 'bath tubs full of glow flies' and being 'bathe[d] in kerosene' evokes a sense of being consumed by darkness, while the 'words tattooed in his veins' suggest a permanent scar left by the abuse, both physically and mentally.