Meaning of Wrong Number [crossed Line Warm Vocal Mix] by The Cure

The Cure's song "Wrong Number [crossed Line Warm Vocal Mix]" is a haunting and introspective track that explores themes of obsession, toxic relationships, and emotional turmoil. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person trapped in a nightmarish situation, where lime green, tangerine, and sickly sweet colors represent the snakes and devils that plague their mind. This intricate imagery and dark atmosphere create a compelling backdrop for the exploration of the song's themes.One standout lyric in the song is "It gets to Friday and I give you a call, 'You know I'm getting kind of worried, she doesn't seem herself at all... Lime green, a sickly kind of orange, I've never seen her like this before...'" This lyric suggests a sense of concern and observation by the protagonist, highlighting the theme of deteriorating mental health. The lime green and sickly orange colors symbolize the protagonist's growing unease with their partner's behavior, indicating an underlying toxicity in the relationship.Another significant lyric is "Burn red, red, and gold, the deep dark colors of the snakes I hold... The deep dark colors of the devil at home." These lines delve into the theme of self-destructive tendencies and the internal battle faced by the protagonist. The intense colors symbolize the darkness within the protagonist's soul, suggesting a conflicted state of mind. The mention of snakes and devils alludes to the protagonist's inner demons, further emphasizing their internal struggle.The line "She pulls me down just as I'm trying to hide, grabs me by the hair and drags me outside, and starts digging in the dirt... For a not so early bird, it's the only way for her to get the worm..." represents the theme of control and manipulation in a relationship. The protagonist portrays their partner as someone who constantly pulls them down, physically and metaphorically, preventing them from finding solace or escape. The image of digging in the dirt represents the partner's relentless pursuit of power and control, showcasing the toxic dynamic."I had the best laid plans this side of America, started out in church and finished with Angelica" is another powerful verse that speaks to the theme of shattered dreams and disillusionment. The protagonist reflects on the initial optimism and ambition they had, only to end up in a destructive relationship. The mention of Angelica adds another layer of symbolism, representing an envisioned ideal or perfection that is ultimately unattainable.Throughout the song, there is a motif of space and the moon, which adds a sense of longing and escapism. The line "You've got to make up your mind and make it soon, is there room in your life for one more trip to the Moon?" hints at the protagonist's desire for a fresh start or a new beginning. The moon serves as a metaphor for leaving behind the pain and turmoil of their current situation, suggesting the possibility of finding solace and freedom.Overall, "Wrong Number [crossed Line Warm Vocal Mix]" by The Cure is a deeply introspective song that delves into themes of obsession, toxic relationships, and emotional turmoil. Through its evocative imagery and thought-provoking lyrics, it paints a haunting portrait of a person trapped in a nightmarish reality. The exploration of deteriorating mental health, control and manipulation, shattered dreams, and the longing for escape creates a captivating narrative that resonates deeply with listeners.