Control

Citizen's song 'Control' delves into the complex dynamics of power, manipulation, and the struggle for autonomy. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who feels trapped and controlled by external forces, symbolized by the 'narrow hallway' and 'thinning airflow.' The imagery of 'hanging heads from the billboards' suggests a sense of being used for entertainment or superficial purposes, further emphasizing the feeling of being a pawn in someone else's game. The protagonist acknowledges their role as a 'short daydream,' a fleeting distraction that ultimately helps no one, highlighting a sense of futility and insignificance.

The chorus, with lines like 'I'm your toy when things get shallow' and 'I'm under your control,' underscores the theme of manipulation and the loss of self. The metaphor of 'hands held under the thorns' suggests a painful, sacrificial position, where the protagonist is kept 'proud of the unknown,' possibly indicating a false sense of pride or accomplishment in their subjugation. The repeated assertion of being 'under control' reflects a deep-seated frustration and resignation to this power dynamic.

As the song progresses, the lyrics reveal a longing for something more meaningful. The lines 'I was on the edge of your everything' and 'Innocence sedates your memory' suggest a past where the protagonist was once significant but has since been overshadowed by other forces. The mention of 'a savior for when you don't feel anything' hints at a desire to be more than just a tool for others' convenience. The song's conclusion, with its repeated refrain of being 'under your control,' leaves the listener with a poignant sense of unresolved tension and the ongoing struggle for personal autonomy.