Meaning of Make Me Smile (come Up And See Me) by Duran Duran

The overall theme of Duran Duran's song "Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me)" delves into the complexities of relationships and the emotional toll they can take. Through its lyrics, the song explores themes of deception, power dynamics, and the longing for genuine connection."Blue eyes, blue eyes; how can you tell so many lies?" This lyric addresses the theme of deception within relationships. It highlights the frustration of being in a situation where someone consistently lies and manipulates, leaving the narrator feeling betrayed and questioning the authenticity of their interactions."There's nothing left, all gone and run away. Maybe you'll tarry for a while. It's just a test, a game for us to play." These lyrics touch upon the theme of power dynamics. The narrator realizes that their partner has taken everything from them, leaving them emotionally exhausted. However, they still hope the partner will stick around, seeing the whole ordeal as a game or test of strength. This suggests a dynamic where the narrator's sense of self-worth is tied to the attention and actions of their partner."Away, away, and don't say maybe you'll try." In these words, the theme of longing for genuine connection is explored. The narrator acknowledges that their partner may continue to avoid making things right or showing genuine effort. This lyric reflects the emotional longing for their partner to truly understand and connect with them on a deep level.In a broader sense, "Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me)" can also be interpreted as a reflection on the struggles of maintaining relationships in a world where deception and power imbalances are prevalent. It touches on the desire for authenticity and for someone to truly see and understand us.Drawing upon these themes, it's fascinating to explore more unexpected and imaginative interpretations that tie back to the song's overarching theme. For example, one could interpret the rebellion mentioned in the opening lines as not just a rebellion against societal norms but also rebellion within oneself. The narrator has broken their own emotional code, realizing that they have allowed themselves to be swept away in a relationship that ultimately leads to their emotional downfall. This interpretation delves into the exploration of inner rebellion and the importance of self-reflection within relationships.Another imaginative theme could revolve around the concept of emotional masks. The narrator could be seen as a person who hides their true emotions behind a facade, only revealing their vulnerability when prompted by their partner's actions. This interpretation delves into the different layers of emotional expression demanded by different relationships and how the narrator navigates their own emotions.Furthermore, one could explore the theme of emotional resilience. The lyrics convey a sense of perseverance, where the narrator insists on maintaining a smile despite the challenges faced in their relationship. This theme could be further developed by exploring the idea of emotional fortitude and the ability to find strength within oneself, even in difficult circumstances.In summary, Duran Duran's "Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me)" is a song that explores the complexities of relationships, touching upon themes of deception, power dynamics, and the longing for genuine connection. By embracing unexpected and imaginative interpretations, such as inner rebellion, emotional masks, and emotional resilience, the song becomes even more thought-provoking, adding layers of depth to its themes. Ultimately, it invites listeners to reflect on the complexities of their own relationships and the emotional toll they can have.