Meaning of "If I Told You Once" by Circus Contraption

The lyrics of "If I Told You Once" explore themes of warning, manipulation, and the destructive power of love. The narrator repeatedly warns their lover to avoid falling in love with someone who is broken and full of despair. This advice can be seen as a reflection of the narrator's own experiences, suggesting that they have been hurt by someone in the past. The warning is given multiple times, emphasizing the importance placed on avoiding such a relationship.

However, despite the warnings, the lover disregards the advice and falls for the broken man. This decision leads to tragic consequences, as the lover ultimately meets their demise. The narrator takes pleaure in their lover's demise, as seen in the lines "Radiance bloomed as I lay you to rest" and "Deep in the ground where the worms have their feast, At last you can taste an incurable peace." This suggests a sense of satisfaction or vindication for the narrator, who may have felt betrayed or hurt by the lover's actions.

The lyrics also explore the idea of control and manipulation. The narrator's repeated warnings can be seen as a way of exerting control over the lover, trying to dictate their choices and actions. The mention of a suicide note and a lock of the lover's hair in the second verse further suggests a possessive and manipulative nature on the part of the narrator.

Overall, the lyrics of "If I Told You Once" portray a dark and twisted tale of warning, manipulation, and tragic love. It delves into the destructive power of love and the narrator's satisfaction in their lover's demise. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of falling for someone who is broken and full of despair.