Face To Face

Siouxsie And The Banshees' song 'Face To Face' delves into the complexities of human relationships, particularly focusing on the duality and conflict inherent in intimate connections. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship that is both alluring and dangerous, filled with moments of intense passion and profound conflict. The recurring imagery of being 'face to face' and 'cheek to cheek' suggests a closeness that is both physical and emotional, yet fraught with tension and contradiction. The phrase 'my lovely foe' encapsulates this duality, portraying the partner as both beloved and adversarial.

The song's metaphors and vivid imagery further explore this theme of duality. Phrases like 'raining heaven's blows' and 'naked as we flow' juxtapose the divine with the raw and vulnerable, highlighting the paradoxical nature of the relationship. The reference to 'siamese twins writhing intertwined' suggests an inseparable bond that is both intimate and suffocating. The masks that 'slide to reveal a new disguise' symbolize the ever-changing dynamics and hidden truths within the relationship, emphasizing the idea that true understanding and transparency are elusive.

The emotional conflict is palpable throughout the song, with lines like 'I want this bliss but something says I must resist' and 'how can you when you're split in two?' capturing the internal struggle between desire and caution. The repeated refrain 'you'll never know' underscores the uncertainty and unresolved tension that pervades the relationship. Ultimately, 'Face To Face' is a haunting exploration of the complexities of love and the perpetual dance between connection and conflict, desire and resistance.