Pts.Of.Athrty (Jay Gordon)

Linkin Park's 'Pts.Of.Athrty (Jay Gordon)' delves into the complex emotions of identity, pain, and the toxic dynamics of relationships. The song opens with a commanding call to 'forfeit the game,' suggesting a sense of inevitability and futility in trying to keep up with the relentless pace of life. This sets the tone for a narrative that explores the internal and external pressures faced by individuals who are constantly judged and shamed by others.

The lyrics reveal a tumultuous relationship where one person takes pleasure in the suffering of another. Lines like 'You love the way I look at you / While taking pleasure in the awful things you put me through' highlight the sadistic pleasure derived from causing pain. This dynamic is further emphasized by the repeated assertion that the victim's 'life, my pride is broken,' indicating a deep sense of betrayal and loss of self-worth.

The chorus underscores the theme of hypocrisy and projection. The repeated lines 'You'd like to think you're never wrong / You have to act like you're someone' point to the facade that people often put up to hide their insecurities and flaws. The desire to make others 'hurt like you' and 'share what you've been through' suggests a cycle of pain and retribution, where the hurt individual seeks to inflict the same suffering on others. This cyclical nature of pain and the struggle for identity and validation are central to the song's message, making it a poignant reflection on the darker aspects of human relationships and self-perception.