Narcissists Psychological Tactics: Analyzing Every Breath You Take as a Love Song

Narcissist's Psychological Tactics: Analyzing 'Every Breath You Take' as a Love Song

Dealing with a narcissist can be emotionally taxing, and sometimes, their choice of songs can further complicate the situation. In this article, we will explore how a narcissist might use songs to maintain a manipulative hold over their partner, using 'Every Breath You Take' by The Police as an example.

Understanding the Song's Context

Released in 1980, 'Every Breath You Take' by The Police stands as a hauntingly beautiful yet eerie love song about jealousy and possessiveness. The lyrics depict a deep-seated desire to control the actions and movements of the other person. While the song resonates strongly with themes of love and devotion, it can also be a tool for emotional manipulation when used by a narcissistic individual.

The Narcissist's Arsenal: The Power of 'Every Breath You Take'

When a narcissist chooses this particular song, they might record it and sing it for their partner, hoping to create a sense of unwavering commitment or to enforce feelings of dependency. The repeated phrases such as 'Every breath you take and every move you make' can be interpreted as a reminder of how closely they are watching the victim's every action, thereby exerting control.

Contrasting Experiences: 'All of Me' and 'Yes, Mine Was Perfect'

It's worth noting that not all songs chosen by narcissists will serve the same purpose. For instance, the song 'All of Me' by John Legend, which earnestly portrays deep emotional connection, might be used by a narcissist to make their partner believe they still care. However, as the author noted in the query, this love song carried an ulterior motive and didn’t resonate genuinely with the listener.

Similarly, 'Yes, Mine Was Perfect' by Ed Sheeran, once a favorite, might now hold little meaning due to its eventual misuse in a manipulative context. This shift in favoritism can signal a change in dynamics and the partner's response to the relationship.

The Enforcing Mechanism: Lyrics as a Reminder

The police lyrics, with their pointed and almost sinister connotations, serve as a prime example of how a narcissist might use the song to harangue their partner. The repetitive phrases like 'Every breath you take' and 'I will be watching you' reinforce a sense of constant surveillance, making the victim feel watched and controlled.

The subject's reaction of 'almost shit my pants' when listening to this song further underscores the anxiety and fear such lyrics can induce. The fear of being judged, the constant vigilance—these are the tools of a narcissist, making the victim feel trapped in a cycle of dependency and fear.

Conclusion

The choice of songs by a narcissist can be a profound indication of their manipulative tactics. Understanding these patterns and recognizing the emotional and psychological abuse involved is crucial for anyone dealing with a narcissistic partner. Whether it's the haunting beauty of 'Every Breath You Take' or the earnestness of 'All of Me', the purpose often remains the same—control and dependency.

It is essential to seek support and build a strong support network to navigate the complexities of such relationships and seek help from professionals when necessary.