Meaning of "Criminal" by Framing Hanley

The lyrics of "Criminal" by Framing Hanley depict a tumultuous and addictive relationship. The singer is clearly captivated by this person, describing them as the fix he cannot live without. The repeated line "Damn girl, this is typical" suggests that this toxic dynamic is a pattern in the singer's life, indicating a lack of self-control and the tendency to make poor choices in romantic partners. Despite being aware of the negative influence this person has on him, the singer continues to be drawn to them, comparing their allure to a drug he cannot stop consuming. The lyrics also hint at a sense of powerlessness in the face of this addiction, as the singer expresses an inability to say no and contain his desires. The repeated phrase "Girl, you make me a criminal" emphasizes the damaging nature of this relationship, as the singer feels that his actions and desires become morally questionable under the influence of this person.

The theme of addiction is central to the song, with the person being compared to a drug. This metaphor highlights the control this individual has over the singer and the destructive nature of their relationship. The line "Your lips, they poison my veins" suggests that the person's actions and words have a detrimental effect on the singer, symbolizing how their presence is toxic to his well-being.

The lyrics also touch on the secretive nature of this relationship. The lines "Secrets are exposed (When the lights are out) / Everybody knows (What you're all about)" indicate that the singer is aware of the negative perception of this person and their influence on him, suggesting that others are aware of the destructive nature of their connection. However, despite this awareness, the singer cannot resist the temptation and continues to engage in this risky behavior.

Overall, "Criminal" explores themes of addiction, self-destruction, and powerlessness in the face of toxic relationships. The lyrics depict the struggle of an individual who is aware of the damaging effects of a particular person but is unable to break free from the allure they hold. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of being controlled by one's desires and the importance of recognizing when a relationship is unhealthy.