Handcuffs

Brand New's song 'Handcuffs' delves into the complexities of morality, guilt, and the human struggle to be virtuous in a flawed world. The lyrics are filled with dark imagery and metaphors that paint a picture of internal conflict and the difficulty of maintaining one's moral compass. The repeated line, 'It's hard to be the better man,' encapsulates the central theme of the song, highlighting the challenge of striving for goodness while grappling with one's darker impulses.

The song opens with the narrator expressing a desire to arrest someone, metaphorically suggesting a need to hold others accountable for their actions. This is juxtaposed with the narrator's own admission of committing morally questionable acts, such as robbing families and contemplating violence. These actions serve as metaphors for the internal battles we face when trying to reconcile our actions with our ideals. The line 'I'd do it to you like you do it to me' suggests a cycle of retribution and the difficulty of breaking free from it.

The imagery of drowning crying babies and driving a car off a bridge further emphasizes the narrator's struggle with dark thoughts and the desire to escape from the weight of their actions. These extreme scenarios illustrate the lengths to which one might go to avoid facing their own guilt and the pain of their conscience. The song's refrain, 'It's hard to be the better man when you forget you're trying,' serves as a poignant reminder of the constant effort required to maintain one's integrity and the ease with which one can lose sight of their moral goals.

Overall, 'Handcuffs' by Brand New is a powerful exploration of the human condition, examining the tension between our aspirations for goodness and the reality of our flawed nature. The song's raw and honest lyrics invite listeners to reflect on their own struggles with morality and the importance of perseverance in the face of ethical challenges.