Meaning of "Deception" by Dance Gavin Dance

In "Deception" by Dance Gavin Dance, the lyrics explore the emotions around realizing that someone has deceived and manipulated the narrator in a relationship. The opening lines, "Better wake up before it's all gone," signify a warning to the narrator to become aware of the situation before it's too late. The imagery of a "leopard print sex swing" and a "beat is shit" highlights the chaotic and unfulfilling nature of the relationship. The narrator expresses a desire for escape, using the analogy of a kite flying away with their partner's essence to liberate themselves from the deception.

Throughout the song, the lyrics convey a sense of betrayal and the feeling of being made a fool. The line "I feel the brick wall hit" suggests the impact of the deception, while mentioning "self-deprecation to settle the score" implies the narrator's response to the betrayal. They refuse to become "plastic and neutered and numb," rejecting the idea of becoming complacent or submissive in the face of deceit.

The chorus repeatedly emphasizes that all the experiences and emotions shared within the relationship were mere illusions, stating, "All of it was make believe." The narrator confronts the deception and begins to question their trust in the partner, realizing that they can no longer rely on them and must pull back the metaphorical covers to see the truth. The feelings of reliance and trust in the partner, "thought I could trust you like no other," are shattered, leading to a sense of disillusionment.

The lyrics also touch on the narrator's newfound empowerment and independence. They reject the toxic influence of those around them with the lines "Cordial graces, smiling faces, back and forth" and assert that they no longer need the deceitful partner anymore. The repetition of the phrase "I don't need you" further emphasizes this newfound self-reliance.

The final verse introduces a moral code symbolized by "a code for people like you" who are always keeping score. The narrator recognizes that they will not succumb to the manipulations and will remain emotionally cold and guarded. They acknowledge that the deception has changed them, making them more resilient and less trusting. The closing line "You made me this way" implies that the deception has shaped the narrator's character, but they refuse to be consumed by it.