Meaning of Red Eye by The Weeknd

The Weeknd's song "Red Eye" is a haunting and enigmatic track that explores themes of love, longing, and sacrifice. With its dark and moody production, the song sets an introspective tone that delves into the complexities of relationships and the consequences of actions taken in the name of love.One standout lyric in the song is "This is a wake, lay your head on my pillow. By the time you're awake, baby you’ll be my widow." These lines evoke a sense of impending doom, emphasizing the ephemeral nature of love. The lyric suggests that the protagonist is fully aware of the potential consequences of the affair, yet they choose to pursue it anyway. This highlights themes of passion and temptation, as well as the inherent risks involved in falling for someone.Another notable lyric that resonates throughout the song is "I taught you how to feel when you thought you never could. And I taught you how to love, nobody ever would." These lines portray the protagonist as a mentor, someone who has provided emotional guidance and support to their partner. However, the subtext suggests that the protagonist may have taken advantage of their vulnerability, which adds a layer of manipulation and exploitation to the narrative. This theme serves as a cautionary tale about the power dynamics within relationships and the potential for emotional manipulation.The chorus of the song further expands on the central theme, with the lyrics "Goin’ back (the red eye, the red eye). Oh, goin' back (on the red eye, the red eye)." Here, the concept of the "red eye" is introduced, which can be interpreted both literally and metaphorically. On a literal level, the red-eye flight symbolizes the protagonist's imminent departure, suggesting a sense of urgency and secrecy. Metaphorically, the red eye represents the longing and yearning that colors the protagonist's actions. It signifies the desire to return to a state of passion and intensity, even if it comes at a cost.In the second verse, the lyric "Girlfriend so runnin' through trouble. And I love her sayin' the way you move" introduces another character into the narrative. This suggests a love triangle or a complex web of emotions. The mention of a "girlfriend" adds a sense of guilt and betrayal to the equation. Here, the theme of regret is explored, as the protagonist grapples with the consequences of their actions and the impact they have on not only their partner but also another individual caught in the mix.The conclusion of the song, with the lines "Oh, where's your love gone? Didn't know you were so in the love with her. Felt lost in the world, woah," conveys a sense of introspection and reflection. The protagonist realizes the depth of their partner's love for someone else and reflects on their own feelings of being lost and isolated. This theme of self-discovery and the painful realization of one's actions contributes to the overall narrative of the song.In summary, "Red Eye" by The Weeknd explores themes of love, temptation, manipulation, regret, and self-discovery. The lyrics depict a complex and troubled relationship that is enveloped in darkness and secrecy. Through its haunting melodies and introspective lyrics, the song paints a vivid picture of the emotional turmoil experienced by the protagonist and the consequences of their choices. Ultimately, "Red Eye" serves as a cautionary tale, urging listeners to tread carefully when navigating affairs of the heart and to consider the potential consequences of their actions.