Meaning of "Control" by Broken Bells

The lyrics of "Control" delve into the themes of impermanence, the struggle for control, and the acceptance of change. The song starts by describing a game where pleasure and pain are used to attain a higher state, but this method eventually stops working. The narrator acknowledges that nothing is permanent in life, and therefore, holding on tightly to things is ultimately useless. As the song progresses, the focus shifts to a relationship that has undergone significant change. The heart has been rearranged, and nothing familiar remains. Despite this, one person insists on maintaining control through physical intimacy, mistaking it for love. The repetition of the line "you gotta give it up" serves as a plea to let go of the need for control and accept the natural flow of life. The final line reiterates the idea that nothing stays around for too long and emphasizes the need to surrender control.

The lyrics of "Control" provoke a deeper reflection on the human desire for control and the consequences of clinging too tightly to things that are bound to change. The addictive quality of the game mentioned in the first verse suggests a pattern of seeking pleasure and avoiding pain, but this eventually proves unsustainable. The recognition that nothing is permanent and the futility of trying to hold on tightly illustrates the wisdom in accepting the impermanence of life. The changing nature of relationships is also explored, highlighting the difficulty in letting go when something familiar becomes unrecognizable. The line "It's just you endlessly needing control" suggests that the need for control can become an obsession, hindering one's ability to adapt and grow. Ultimately, the song encourages the listener to release the need for control and embrace the ever-changing nature of life.