Meaning of "Vicious Circle" by Lou Reed

The lyrics of "Vicious Circle" explore the idea of being trapped in a detrimental cycle, surrounded by people who claim to be friends but actually contribute to the negative patterns in your life. The song touches on the tendency of some individuals to thrive on drama and chaos, enjoying the problems of others. It also portrays the conflicting opinions and judgments of those around you, highlighting how subjective and unreliable their perspectives can be. Ultimately, the song conveys a sense of frustration and helplessness in trying to break free from the toxic cycle and the critical influences of the so-called friends. It speaks to the struggles of navigating social dynamics and self-perception, emphasizing the difficulties of finding genuine connections and breaking free from harmful patterns.