Once Bitten

Samson's song 'Once Bitten' delves into the emotional turmoil and disillusionment that comes from being deceived in a relationship. The lyrics convey a sense of betrayal and frustration, as the protagonist realizes that their partner has been unfaithful and manipulative. The repeated phrase 'I've been bitten again, twice shy' underscores the pain of being hurt repeatedly, leading to a cautious and guarded approach to future relationships. This phrase is a play on the proverb 'Once bitten, twice shy,' which means that a person who has been hurt once is likely to be more careful in the future.

The song's verses highlight the protagonist's feelings of being used and unappreciated. Lines like 'You don't move me, you don't stir me, you only cheat me' reflect a deep sense of disillusionment and emotional detachment. The mention of a 'bad reputation' suggests that the partner's untrustworthy behavior is well-known, yet the protagonist initially ignored these warnings, only to be hurt again. The imagery of feeling 'like a dog without a bone' and being teased 'at the end of the phone' further emphasizes the sense of loneliness and frustration.

Musically, Samson's hard rock style amplifies the raw emotions expressed in the lyrics. The guitar solo adds an intense, almost cathartic release of the pent-up anger and sadness. The repetition of the chorus, especially towards the end of the song, drives home the message of repeated betrayal and the resulting wariness. 'Once Bitten' serves as a powerful anthem for anyone who has experienced the sting of betrayal and the struggle to trust again.