Meaning of Hands To Myself by Selena Gomez

In Selena Gomez's hit song 'Hands To Myself,' the overall theme revolves around desire, temptation, and the struggle to control one's impulses. Through the use of clever and provocative metaphors, the song tells the tale of a forbidden love that is impossible to resist. As we delve into the lyrics, we uncover unexpected and imaginative themes that contribute to the song's enticing energy.The opening lines, "Can't keep my hands to myself, No matter how hard I'm trying to," immediately establish the song's central theme. It explores the idea of succumbing to desire and being unable to resist the allure of someone. This desire is further emphasized by the line, "I want you all to myself." Here, the theme of possessiveness develops along with the notion of wanting someone exclusively.As the song progresses, the metaphorical language becomes more pronounced. The line, "You're metaphorical gin and juice," likens the person being sung about to an intoxicating substance. This metaphor not only adds an element of seduction, but it also symbolizes the addictive nature of desire. The desire for this person is so strong that the singer longs for a taste, showcasing the theme of craving and yearning.Another standout lyric is, "My doctor says you're no good, but people say what they wanna say." This line introduces a conflicting theme, one of societal judgments and personal opinions. It delves into the idea that sometimes people warn us against the very things we desire, yet we are willing to disregard their advice. It suggests that the heart often follows its own desires, regardless of what others may say. This theme of defying societal expectations continues with the line, "And you should know if I could, I'd breathe you in every single day." It conveys the message that love knows no bounds and can't be confined by conventional rules.The repeating chorus, "Can't keep my hands to myself," takes on a new meaning in each instance. While on the surface, it represents the struggle to physically restrain oneself, it also represents the inability to control one's emotions and desires. This theme of losing control is further exemplified by the line, "All of the doubts and the outbursts keep making love to each other." Here, doubts and outbursts are personified, suggesting that opposing emotions and actions continuously clash within the singer. This theme suggests that despite the internal turmoil caused by desire, the pull towards the person being lusted after remains overpowering.The culmination of these themes gives rise to an imaginative and unexpected idea. The lyrics, "I want it all, no, nothing else, Give me your all and nothing else," depict an all-consuming desire for a person's entirety. This theme explores the longing for a deep emotional connection, far beyond mere physical attraction. It suggests a yearning for a love that is all-encompassing, where nothing else matters but the intensity of the connection. This theme hints at the universal desire for a soulmate, someone who completes and fulfills us completely.In conclusion, 'Hands To Myself' is a song that delves into the depths of desire and the inability to resist temptation. It portrays the struggle to control one's impulses in the face of overwhelming magnetism. Through imaginative metaphors and provocative lyrics, the song develops themes such as possessiveness, addictive desire, societal judgment, and the battle between opposing emotions. Ultimately, it explores the universal longing for an all-encompassing love that consumes every aspect of our being, leaving us unable to keep our hands to ourselves.