Meaning of Locomotive [complicity] (2022 Remaster) by Guns N’ Roses

'Locomotive [complicity]' by Guns N’ Roses is an intense and emotionally charged song that delves into complex themes of love, pain, trust, and the struggle to maintain a relationship. The lyrics portray a sense of loneliness and frustration, as the protagonist grapples with the challenges of love and the disillusionment that comes with it. Throughout the song, the lyrics highlight different aspects of the protagonist's journey, unraveling various unexpected yet relatable themes.The opening lines of the song set the stage for the overarching theme of loneliness and the desire for connection. The lyrics, "Gonna find a way to cure this loneliness, Yeah, I'll find a way to cure the pain," express the protagonist's search for solace in an often cold and unforgiving world. This theme of loneliness is further reinforced in the chorus, where the protagonist compares their partner to a runaway train that derails their own life, stating, "My baby's got a locomotive, my baby's gone off the track."One standout lyric that showcases the theme of disillusionment and unfulfilled expectations is, "Yeah, I bought me an illusion and I put it on the wall, I let it fill my head with dreams and I had to have them all." These words reflect the protagonist's tendency to chase unattainable fantasies and idealized notions of love, only to be left feeling empty and deceived. This theme is deepened in the following lines, "But, oh, the taste is never so sweet as what you'd believe it is, Well, I guess it never is, it's these prejudiced illusions," emphasizing the bitterness and disappointment that often accompany unfulfilled desires.Another significant theme explored in the song revolves around the power dynamics within a relationship. The lyrics, "You know, I never thought that it could take so long, You know I never knew how to be strong," portray the protagonist's struggle to assert themselves and maintain their identity within a partnership. Furthermore, the line, "'Cause you climbed inside my world and in my song," suggests a loss of personal boundaries and an overwhelming infiltration of the other person's influence into the protagonist's life.The lyrics, "Sweetness is a virtue and you lost your virtue long ago, You know I'd like to hurt you but my conscience always tells me 'No,'" bring forth the theme of resentment and the internal battle between seeking revenge and holding onto one's moral compass. This inner conflict reflects the complexity of human emotions and the desire to maintain a sense of integrity despite feeling wronged.Additionally, the song touches on the themes of self-reflection and personal growth. The lyrics, "Gonna have some fun with my frustration, Gonna watch the big screen in my head," indicate the protagonist's decision to find solace within themselves and explore their own inner world. These lines suggest a need for self-discovery and a temporary detachment from the external chaos of relationships.Throughout the song, there is a recurrent motif of illusion and reality. The lyrics, "You can use your illusion, let it take you where it may," illustrate the protagonist's acknowledgment of the temporary nature of illusions and the necessity to accept reality. This theme of facing the truth is also reflected in the chorus, where the line, "Take a closer look, I'm not to blame," suggests a plea to be understood and no longer judged solely based on appearances.In conclusion, 'Locomotive [complicity]' by Guns N’ Roses explores a range of intricate themes that center around love, pain, disillusionment, and the struggle for self-discovery. The song delves deep into the complexities of relationships and the inner turmoil that can arise from unfulfilled expectations and personal growth. Through thought-provoking lyrics, the band brings to light unexpected and imaginative themes that resonate with listeners, ultimately inviting them to reflect on their own experiences and emotions.