Every Breath You Take

Sting's 'Every Breath You Take' is often mistaken for a romantic ballad, but a closer look at the lyrics reveals a darker narrative. The song, performed by the band The Police, with Sting as the lead vocalist and bassist, was released in 1983 and quickly became a hit. However, the song's catchy melody belies its true subject: the obsessive nature of a person who can't let go after a relationship has ended.

The lyrics describe an intense surveillance of an ex-lover, with the narrator noting every action and claiming a possessive attachment ('You belong to me'). The repetition of 'I'll be watching you' underscores the relentless nature of the narrator's focus. This could be interpreted as a commentary on the fine line between love and obsession, and the unhealthy aspects of claiming ownership over another person. The song's protagonist is consumed by longing and the inability to move on, which is expressed through the haunting refrain.

Culturally, 'Every Breath You Take' has been widely misunderstood, often played at weddings and romantic occasions despite its stalker-like connotations. Sting himself has commented on the misinterpretation of the song, noting that it's about control and surveillance rather than healthy romantic love. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to its complex emotional layers and the universal theme of dealing with the aftermath of a lost love.