How Many Lies?

Spandau Ballet's song 'How Many Lies?' delves into the complexities of truth and deception in personal relationships and broader societal contexts. The lyrics reflect a sense of nostalgia for a time when honesty and transparency were more prevalent. The opening lines, 'Once there were times, Once there were reasons filled with rhymes,' evoke a longing for a past where everything was shared and open. This sets the stage for a contrast with the present, where lies and deceit have become more common, leading to a sense of disillusionment and betrayal.

The chorus, 'How many lies must we tell? How many lies must we see? How many times must we say, it's for the best? And leave truth as the casualty?' questions the frequency and justification of lies in our lives. It highlights the moral dilemma of whether lying can ever be justified if it is claimed to be 'for the best.' The repetition of these questions underscores the pervasive nature of deceit and its damaging effects on trust and integrity. The song also critiques the media and societal influences, asking, 'Do you read through the lines, Or believe the TV and the Times?' This line challenges listeners to question the information they receive and to seek out the truth for themselves.

The song's bridge, 'Well, it's your freedom of choice, But you know that lies, are the cancer of democracy,' brings a political dimension to the theme of deception. It suggests that lies not only harm personal relationships but also erode the foundations of democratic society. The metaphor of lies as a 'cancer' emphasizes their insidious and destructive nature. The song concludes with a call to action, urging listeners to embrace truth and honesty: 'If there's truth in our hearts, Maybe we can break free.' This hopeful note suggests that while lies may be pervasive, there is still the possibility of redemption and change if we commit to living truthfully.