Meaning of "Necessary Evil" by The Dresden Dolls

The lyrics of "Necessary Evil" delve into the theme of dependency and the fear of being forgotten or replaced. The artist reminisces about the past, highlighting the simplicity and intimacy of communication through writing letters or personal visits. The mention of "golden days" suggests a longing for a time when connections were more genuine and meaningful. The artist questions their significance in someone's life, wondering if they could be forgotten or easily replaced. The line "Can you find yourself without me?" captures the fear of no longer being needed or valued by someone else.

The song also touches on the commodification of relationships and the loss of authenticity in a digitized world. The artist discusses connecting with suitors through speakers at discotheques, emphasizing the superficiality of these interactions. The reference to "men or are they Memorex?" suggests that these suitors lack genuine emotion or individuality, questioning their authenticity. The use of Listerine as a metaphor at the end of the song implies the need to cleanse oneself from these artificial connections and regain a sense of genuine human interaction.

Overall, "Necessary Evil" reflects on the dependence we have on others and the fear of being replaced in a digital age where connections can feel shallow and impersonal. It explores the longing for deeper connections and the questioning of one's own significance in the lives of others.