I Tried Love (Escapology Hidden Track)
Robbie Williams
The Absurdity of Love: Robbie Williams' Satirical Take
Robbie Williams' hidden track 'I Tried Love' from his album 'Escapology' is a satirical and humorous exploration of the frustrations and absurdities of love. The song is filled with random, seemingly nonsensical questions that reflect the singer's disinterest and boredom in a relationship. By juxtaposing trivial questions about pop culture and everyday life with the theme of love, Williams highlights the mundane and often ridiculous nature of romantic entanglements.
The lyrics are peppered with references to various cultural icons and events, such as Richard Gere, World War II, and The Corrs, which serve to emphasize the singer's distraction and lack of engagement with his partner. The repeated refrain, 'I tried love, I'm sorry,' suggests a sense of resignation and disillusionment with the concept of love itself. The song's playful tone and absurd questions, like 'Why is there ketchup on my sleeve?' and 'Do you think Adam fancied Eve?' further underscore the singer's detachment and cynicism.
Williams' use of humor and satire in 'I Tried Love' provides a refreshing take on the often overly sentimental and serious subject of love. By incorporating random musings and cultural references, he creates a sense of relatability and authenticity, as many people have experienced similar feelings of boredom and frustration in relationships. The song ultimately serves as a reminder that love, like life, can be messy, confusing, and sometimes downright absurd.