The Perfect Kiss

New Order's 'The Perfect Kiss' is a song that intertwines themes of escapism, friendship, and the stark reality of mortality. The lyrics begin with a seemingly mundane reflection on the weather, which quickly transitions into a narrative about the protagonist and a friend deciding to go out together. The casual tone belies a sense of foreboding, as the protagonist acknowledges his friend's 'gun'—a metaphor that could signify danger or a troubled state of mind.

As the song progresses, the lyrics delve into the protagonist's internal conflict between the desire for social interaction and the comfort of solitude. The mention of 'playing with my pleasure zone' suggests a preference for personal gratification over the unpredictability of social engagements. The friend is described as 'strange' and possibly 'deranged,' hinting at underlying issues that could lead to a tragic outcome. The repeated lines 'I know, you know, we believe in a land of love' serve as a hopeful mantra, contrasting with the darker elements of the song.

The final verse confronts the listener with the consequences of ignoring the signs of distress in others. The 'perfect kiss' is revealed to be a metaphor for death, as the friend takes his 'final breath.' The song leaves us with a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of being present and aware of the struggles of those around us. New Order, known for their post-punk and electronic dance music, often infuses their songs with complex emotions and thought-provoking lyrics, and 'The Perfect Kiss' is no exception.