Devil Doesn't Bargain
Alec Benjamin
The Unchangeable Nature of Toxicity in 'Devil Doesn't Bargain' by Alec Benjamin
Alec Benjamin's 'Devil Doesn't Bargain' is a poignant exploration of the futility in trying to change someone who is inherently harmful or toxic. The song uses the metaphor of the devil to represent a person or entity that is incapable of change, despite the hope and efforts that one might invest in them. The lyrics convey a sense of resignation and a warning against the false belief that love or persistence can transform someone who is set in their destructive ways.
The song's chorus, 'The devil doesn't bargain, He'll only break your heart again,' serves as a stark reminder that some individuals are beyond redemption in the context of a relationship. The devil, a symbol of ultimate evil and deceit, is portrayed as someone who will never fulfill the role of 'Prince Charming.' This comparison suggests that waiting for a toxic person to become the ideal partner is not only futile but also damaging. The repetition of 'He's never gonna change' emphasizes the permanence of the devil's—or the toxic person's—nature.
Alec Benjamin's gentle vocal delivery and the melodic structure of the song contrast with the heavy message it carries. This contrast may reflect the internal conflict experienced by those who are in denial about the true nature of their toxic partners. The song serves as a compassionate, albeit firm, piece of advice to those who are caught in the cycle of hoping for change in someone who has consistently proven to be harmful. It's a call to recognize the reality of the situation and to protect oneself from further emotional harm by letting go of the expectation that the 'devil' will ever settle or compromise.