Vicious Circle

Millencolin's song 'Vicious Circle' delves into the complexities and cyclical nature of a troubled relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a couple caught in a paradox of love and conflict. The opening lines, 'I see the sunlight on your face, I see the darkness in your eyes,' highlight the duality and contradictions inherent in their relationship. This juxtaposition sets the stage for the recurring theme of a 'vicious circle,' where the couple is trapped in a loop of emotional highs and lows.

The song explores various solutions to their problems, from having children to moving abroad, but each suggestion seems to stem from a place of confusion and boredom. The lines 'Should we try to have some kids, Or should we just go separate ways?' reflect the uncertainty and indecision that plague their relationship. The mention of moving to places like Belgrade or Madrid symbolizes a desire to escape their current situation, yet it also underscores their lack of direction and clarity.

The chorus, 'So tear me up and knock me down, Just like a vicious circle no one gets around,' encapsulates the essence of their relationship. It's a cycle of hurting and being hurt, where neither party can break free. The song also touches on dependency and the subjective nature of love, as seen in the lines 'You know that I depend on you, You know that you depend on love, And then love, well love depends on me.' This interdependence adds another layer of complexity, making it even harder for them to find a resolution.

Ultimately, 'Vicious Circle' is a poignant exploration of the struggles and emotional turmoil that can arise in a relationship. It captures the feeling of being stuck in a never-ending loop, where attempts to fix things only lead to more confusion and pain. The song resonates with anyone who has experienced the frustration of a relationship that seems impossible to mend, yet equally impossible to leave.