Strangelove

Depeche Mode's 'Strangelove' is a song that delves into the complexities and contradictions of love and desire. The lyrics, written by Martin Gore, explore the theme of a love that is intense and consuming, yet fraught with pain and challenges. The repeated phrase 'strange highs and strange lows' encapsulates the rollercoaster of emotions that love can bring, suggesting that the experience is both exhilarating and distressing.

The song's narrator speaks of giving in to 'sin' and the inevitability of making mistakes ('crimes') in the pursuit of making life 'liveable.' This suggests a recognition of human imperfection and the sometimes destructive behaviors that can accompany passionate love. The plea 'will you give it to me?' indicates a desire for reciprocity in the relationship, asking for both the giving and receiving of pain, which may symbolize the sacrifices and compromises often required in love.

The repeated references to 'pain' and the question 'Will you return it?' highlight the masochistic elements of the relationship described in the song. It suggests a cycle of hurt and reconciliation that the narrator seems to find necessary for the relationship's vitality. The song's dark and synth-heavy sound, characteristic of Depeche Mode's style, complements the lyrical content, creating a mood that is both seductive and slightly ominous. 'Strangelove' is a powerful expression of the darker sides of love, where pleasure and pain are intertwined.