Story Behind The Song
Though not purely autobiographical, lyricist Meyer compares the narrator's plight to "the worst in all of my relationships amalgamated into one train wreck."
Song Description
This song is sung from point of view of one under the thumb of their significant other. The relationship is fueled by codependency. It's sung from the moment of self-realization that the cycle needs to be broken.
The strong visual imagery of a cattle branding serves as a potent euphemism for the emotional scarring that's taken place.
Stylisitcally, the music harkens back to new romantic heroes like Talk Talk, Roxy Music, Duran, New Order, etc.; as well as the latest wave of the movement's alt-rock incarnation like The Killers, The Bravery, She Wants Revenge, Ladytron, VHS or Beta, etc.
| Song Length |
4:15 |
Genre |
Rock - New Wave, Rock - Alternative |
| Tempo |
Medium (111 - 130) |
Lead Vocal |
Male Vocal |
| Mood |
Troubled, Disturbed |
Subject |
Dysfunctional Relations, Frustration |
| Similar Artists |
A-Ha, Flock Of Seagulls |
Language |
English |
| Era |
2000 and later |
| |
Lyrics
You wore a painted smile
I knew then
You?d take me for a ride
You made me walk a mile
behind you
only to be denied
Frustrated, and weighted
by all your velvet chains
My broken, unspoken infatuation
Your eyes leave a pained expression (Branded into my mind)
Your lips whisper cold confessions (Branded into my mind) Your touch leaves a bold impression (Branded into my mind) 3x
You burn your cold commands
into me
Into my flesh and pride
In shame I wear the brand
you gave me
A scar I cannot hide
addiction, this friction
It draws me closer in
Disease me then please me
to keep me wanting-
CH2 sic.
I can?t ignore
from here on the floor
what you adore
I heed your call
I beg and I crawl
set for a fall
CH 3 sic.