Meaning of "Rhythm of Cruelty" by Magazine

The lyrics of "Rhythm of Cruelty" by Magazine delve into the complexities of a toxic relationship where one person is infatuated with the other, who appears to be self-absorbed and indifferent to the singer's suffering. The lines "You've got me dying of thirst in the meantime, It even hurts when I scream" highlight the intense longing and pain experienced by the singer in this unreciprocated love. The singer also acknowledges the other person's attractiveness and the power they hold over them, admiring their "ingenuity" in maintaining this dynamic. The repeated phrase "You don't know what it could mean" highlights the lack of understanding and connection between the two individuals, emphasizing the disconnect in communication. The lines "Because you want to have your price, And something you could hold your faith up to" suggest that the other person is seeking validation or material fulfillment, while the singer struggles to express their own emotions and truth. Overall, the song captures the internal conflict, emotional turmoil, and power dynamics present in a dysfunctional relationship where cruelty seems to prevail.