Melatonin

Radiohead's song 'Melatonin' is a hauntingly brief yet powerful piece that delves into themes of control, protection, and the complex relationship between parent and child. The lyrics, though sparse, are loaded with meaning and evoke a sense of both comfort and unease. The opening lines, 'Don't forget that you are our son / Now go back to bed,' suggest a parental figure asserting their authority and reminding the child of their place within the family structure. This can be seen as a metaphor for societal expectations and the pressure to conform to certain roles and behaviors.

The next lines, 'We just know that you are ours / You won't cry too hard,' further emphasize the possessive nature of the relationship. The use of 'ours' indicates a sense of ownership, which can be interpreted as both protective and controlling. The reassurance that the child 'won't cry too hard' implies a desire to shield them from pain, but it also hints at an underlying expectation to suppress emotions and maintain composure.

The final lines, 'Death to all who stand in your way / Wave my arms you,' introduce a more aggressive tone, suggesting a willingness to go to great lengths to protect the child. This could be seen as a metaphor for the lengths to which society or authority figures will go to maintain control and ensure compliance. The phrase 'wave my arms you' is ambiguous but could imply a gesture of command or a signal of dominance. Overall, 'Melatonin' captures the duality of protection and control, highlighting the fine line between caring for someone and exerting power over them.