Partners In Crime

Rupert Holmes' song 'Partners In Crime' delves into the complex and often toxic dynamics of human relationships. The lyrics paint vivid portraits of two distinct couples, each trapped in a cycle of mutual harm and dependency. The first couple consists of a young girl named Desiree and a man she calls Swagger. Desiree, a runaway from Wyoming, finds herself in New York, where Swagger takes her under his wing. Despite the abusive nature of their relationship, Desiree clings to Swagger, believing she cannot survive without him. This narrative highlights the tragic reality of many young women who fall prey to manipulative figures, mistaking control for care.

The second couple Holmes describes works in a corporate setting. The woman is a buyer for Bloomingdale's, and the man is a division head of commercial sales. Their relationship is marked by a power struggle, with the woman dominating the man outside of work. This couple's dynamic underscores the theme of power and pain, showing how professional roles can bleed into personal lives, creating a toxic environment where love and control are intertwined. The juxtaposition of these two couples serves to illustrate that toxic relationships can manifest in various forms, regardless of socioeconomic status.

Holmes' chorus ties these stories together, suggesting that all human relationships have the potential to become 'partners in crime.' The phrase implies a shared culpability in the harm we inflict on each other, whether through dependency, control, or mutual destruction. The song ultimately reflects on the human condition, emphasizing that our need for love and connection can sometimes lead us down dark and destructive paths. The repeated line 'we need love so badly, losing it we'd never survive' encapsulates the desperation that drives these toxic bonds, making 'Partners In Crime' a poignant commentary on the darker side of love and dependency.