Meaning of "Prisoner" by The Weeknd

The lyrics of "Prisoner" by The Weeknd delve into themes of love, addiction, and the contrast between appearance and reality. The song primarily focuses on the speaker's intense dependence on their romantic partner. They admit that without this person's love, they would have no purpose or meaning in life. This dependency is described as an addiction, as the speaker feels trapped and imprisoned by their overwhelming need for this relationship. The lyrics reflect a sense of desperation, suggesting that the speaker's life feels hollow and devoid of true fulfillment without their partner's presence.

The Weeknd also explores the idea that love is a lesson to be learned, implying that it offers both joy and pain. The speaker suggests that by avoiding or evading love, they can escape its inevitable hardships. This desire to avoid the inevitable challenges and complexities of love arises from the fear of getting hurt or experiencing disappointment.

Furthermore, the song briefly touches on the artist's experience in Hollywood. The Weeknd expresses a feeling of burnout, indicating that the glamorous and surreal nature of Hollywood has taken its toll on his soul. This sentiment reflects the disillusionment and emptiness that can come with success and fame. The contrast between the artist's dreams and reality is highlighted, as they admit that the real world is often stranger and more unpredictable than what they imagined.

Overall, "Prisoner" explores the internal struggles and conflicts that arise from love, addiction, and the pursuit of dreams. The lyrics capture a sense of yearning, dependency, and longing, as well as the impact that external factors, such as fame, can have on one's emotional well-being.