Take it Away
The Used
The Agony of Self-Destruction in 'Take it Away' by The Used
The song 'Take it Away' by The Used delves into the dark and tumultuous emotions of self-destruction and inner conflict. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone grappling with their own demons, feeling trapped in a cycle of self-abuse and regret. The repeated phrase 'Burn the sun, burn the light' symbolizes a desire to extinguish any source of hope or positivity, reflecting a deep-seated aversion to anything that might bring light into their life. This imagery of burning the sun and light suggests a profound sense of despair and a wish to obliterate any semblance of happiness or clarity.
The protagonist of the song is caught in a web of lies and excuses, as indicated by the lines 'I'm lying to myself, and this dagger is my excuse.' This self-deception is a coping mechanism, a way to justify their actions and avoid facing the harsh reality of their situation. The mention of 'chemical romance' hints at substance abuse, further emphasizing the theme of self-destruction. The lyrics 'I'm a worm with no more chances' and 'I've lost all doubt in a chemical romance' suggest a sense of hopelessness and resignation, as if the protagonist has given up on finding any real love or redemption.
The chorus, with its repetitive plea to 'take take take take take take it away,' underscores the desperation and longing for escape. The protagonist is willing to give up everything—'Take my hand, take my life'—in a bid to be free from their torment. The song's raw and intense emotion is a hallmark of The Used's style, known for their ability to convey deep and often painful feelings through their music. The final lines, 'Take my heart, take my mind, take my lungs, take my life,' encapsulate the ultimate surrender, a complete relinquishment of self in the face of overwhelming inner turmoil.