Meaning of "King Midas in Reverse" by The Hollies

"King Midas in Reverse" highlights the protagonist's feelings of helplessness and self-destructive tendencies. The reference to King Midas, a mythological figure who turned everything he touched into gold, underscores the theme of unintended consequences and the destructive nature of their actions. While King Midas wanted everything he touched to turn to gold, the protagonist experiences the opposite effect, where all their efforts lead to ruin. This sense of isolation and pessimism is conveyed through the repeated refrain, emphasizing the protagonist's feelings of being abandoned and misunderstood. The plea for help and fear of losing control suggest a struggle with internal demons and a desire for redemption. Overall, the lyrics explore themes of despair, regret, and the longing for salvation in the face of one's own destructive tendencies.