Far Too Hard

Dead Or Alive's song 'Far Too Hard' delves into the theme of narcissism and self-obsession, exploring the dangerous allure of one's own reflection. The lyrics are a candid confession of a young man who is captivated by his own image, to the point where it becomes a 'dangerous direction.' This fascination with his own profile in the mirror symbolizes a deeper, more troubling self-love that borders on vanity and egotism. The repetition of the phrase 'far too hard' underscores the difficulty of breaking free from this self-centered mindset.

The song's protagonist acknowledges his self-obsession but refuses to apologize for it, stating that doing so would be 'far too hard.' This refusal to seek forgiveness or change highlights the stubborn nature of narcissism. The lyrics 'Oh, it is me that holds my steering wheel' suggest that the protagonist is fully in control of his life, yet this control is misguided by his own self-love. The metaphor of 'drowning on the rules I've made from self-love' paints a vivid picture of how consuming and suffocating this narcissism can be.

Dead Or Alive, known for their new wave and dance-pop style, often infused their music with bold and provocative themes. 'Far Too Hard' is no exception, as it challenges listeners to reflect on their own tendencies towards self-obsession. The song serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of narcissism, urging a balance between self-love and humility. The cultural context of the 1980s, a decade marked by a focus on individualism and self-expression, adds another layer of meaning to the song, making it a timeless commentary on human nature.