Meaning of Obsession by Siouxsie and the Banshees

In the musical landscape, there exists a realm where unrequited love, desire, and fixation merge into a haunting spectacle of sound. Siouxsie and the Banshees' song "Obsession" perfectly captures this realm, enveloping the listener in a euphoric wave of obsessive emotions. The song's overall theme revolves around the intensity of fixation and the often unreciprocated nature of this deep-rooted longing.As we delve into the lyrics, we discover a myriad of standout phrases that contribute to the song's eerie atmosphere. "I close my eyes but I can't sleep, the thin membrane can't veil the branded picture of you" paints a vivid picture of restless nights, where the object of obsession infiltrates the subconscious mind. Here, the theme of sleeplessness exemplifies the powerlessness one feels when in the throes of infatuation. It embodies a state of perpetual longing, where sleep becomes an elusive sanctuary.Another standout lyric that echoes the theme of fixation is "I broke into your room, I broke down in my room, touched your belongings there and left a lock of my hair." This portrayal of unwanted intrusion heightens the intensity of obsession, showcasing a boundary-crossing desire for connection. The act of leaving a lock of hair signifies a desperate attempt to interweave oneself into the life of the beloved. It represents a longing to be seen and acknowledged, no matter how unsettling the actions may be.Moving further into the song, the phrase "The signs and signals show, the traffic lights say go" introduces the concept of a hidden language of signs and cues. This alludes to the intricate dance between the obsessed and the object of their affection, where even the most subtle indications become a source of hope and despair. It suggests that each traffic light change becomes a potential signal, a metaphorical way the universe may conspire to grant the obsessed individual a chance at requited love.As the lyrics progress, the line "You know sometimes you take it all too far, then I remember it's a game between you and me, a divine test for us two, it's all in my imagination" emerges as a pivotal moment. Here, the song hints at the possibility that the entire affair may be a construct of the obsessed individual's mind. This unexpected twist raises the theme of self-deception and the blurred lines between fantasy and reality. It poses the question of whether the obsession itself is an illusion, an intricate game created to cope with unrequited love.In Siouxsie and the Banshees' "Obsession," the overarching theme of fixation weaves through each carefully crafted lyric. However, it is essential to recognize that these themes go beyond mere infatuation. The song delves into the human psyche, exploring the lengths one may go to grasp onto a fleeting connection. It examines the thin line between passion and delusion and the enthralling power of one's imagination. Ultimately, "Obsession" reminds us that our fantasies can become both our salvation and our deepest downfall if left unchecked.