Dream Attack

New Order's 'Dream Attack' is a poignant exploration of the complexities of love and independence. The song opens with a vivid description of a transformative morning, where the music heard by the narrator brings an unparalleled sense of joy and vitality. This sets the tone for the rest of the song, which delves into the emotional turmoil of wanting to be with someone while fiercely guarding one's independence. The lyrics, 'I don't belong to no one / But I want to be with you,' encapsulate this internal conflict, highlighting the struggle between the desire for connection and the need for personal freedom.

The recurring theme of the Sun in the lyrics serves as a powerful metaphor. The Sun represents a source of life and energy, something that is essential yet untouchable. The lines, 'Don't look into the Sun / It's not for me or anyone,' suggest that some things are beyond human control or possession, much like the love the narrator yearns for. This metaphor extends to the idea of stealing light from the sky, questioning whether it is a sin to desire something so intensely that it feels almost forbidden. The narrator's willingness to 'give in' if it means keeping the love they cannot live without adds a layer of vulnerability to the song.

The song also touches on the theme of self-acceptance. The closing lines, 'And for you I would do what I can / But I can't change the way that I am,' reveal a deep-seated acceptance of one's own limitations. Despite the narrator's willingness to go to great lengths for their loved one, there is an acknowledgment that some aspects of their identity are immutable. This acceptance is both a strength and a source of sorrow, as it underscores the difficulty of reconciling personal freedom with the desire for a deep, meaningful connection.