Meaning of Denial by New Order

In the vast realm of music, there are songs that transcend the boundaries of conventional lyrical content and strike a deeper chord within our souls. "Denial," a track by the iconic British band New Order, is one such song. Released on their 1989 album "Technique," this haunting composition takes listeners on a journey through introspection, denial, and the complexities of the human psyche.At its core, the overarching theme of "Denial" revolves around the challenges of facing one's own reality. The lyrics depict a house full of doors but no exits, emphasizing the feeling of entrapment and the inability to escape one's circumstances. This theme of entrapment can be seen as a metaphor for the struggles and hardships we often encounter in life.Stepping further into the intricacies of the song, let's explore some standout lyrics that add depth to the overarching theme:1. "Here I am in a house full of doors but no exits, in a light that is grey like the stain on my windows"This line speaks to the feeling of being lost and stuck in a state of confusion. The house full of doors symbolizes the myriad of possibilities and choices we encounter, yet none appear to lead to a solution. The mention of the grey light and stained windows suggests a sense of melancholy, as if the protagonist is perceiving the world through a clouded lens.2. "Believe me, this distance, it's not what I need, inside of me"Here, the protagonist discovers that distance can develop within themselves, ultimately hindering growth and self-realization. The internal struggle and inner conflict create a hollowness that can't be filled solely by external forces. This theme highlights the importance of introspection and personal evaluation in navigating life's challenges.3. "This feeling inside me can't confront the decay, to fall down on my knees and resume this charade"These lyrics speak to the denial often experienced when faced with the decay or deterioration of a situation. The feeling inside the protagonist becomes an obstacle preventing them from acknowledging and accepting the need for change. The mention of falling down on their knees and resuming a charade implies a sense of resignation or pretending, emphasizing the avoidance of facing reality.4. "Time worked so well upon us, inside my soul"This line delves into the complexity of time and how it can shape our experiences and perceptions. Just as time has a way of molding us, it also impacts our internal landscape. The phrase "inside my soul" suggests that the passage of time imprints itself upon our very being. It serves as a reminder that denial can only prolong the inevitable and hinder personal growth.By analyzing these standout lyrics, we uncover unexpected and imaginative themes within "Denial." One such theme is the struggle with the ephemeral nature of time and the impact it has on our lives; another theme is the concept of distance and its ability to create hollow spaces within ourselves. Additionally, the song explores the idea of decay and deterioration, reflecting the struggle to confront and accept the inevitable changes that life brings."Denial" is a timeless anthem that resonates with listeners far beyond its release date. It forces us to confront the unspoken emotions and struggles that often weigh on our souls. Through its soaring melodies and introspective lyrics, New Order's masterpiece invites us to delve deep into the recesses of our consciousness and confront the denial that sometimes hinders our growth and fulfillment.