Released: 2007
“505” by Arctic Monkeys takes us on a raw, emotional rollercoaster, diving deep into the longing and complexities of a relationship that’s both intense and troubled. It’s a love song, but not your typical one; it’s filled with angst, desire, and a bit of despair, painting a vivid picture of a person who’s willing to cross great distances, both literally and figuratively, for the one they love.
The opening lines, “I’m going back to 505. If it’s a seven-hour flight or a 45-minute drive,” sets the scene of someone determined to return to a place or person labeled as “505.” This could symbolize a specific location tied to memories of the person he’s longing for. The specificity of the travel time indicates a deep familiarity and a willingness to undertake the journey, no matter the length. “In my imagination, you’re waiting lying on your side with your hands between your thighs” further reveals the yearning and intimate image the speaker has in their mind, denoting a mix of sexual desire and emotional connection.
The words, “Stop and wait a sec’. Oh, when you look at me like that, my darling, what did you expect? I’d probably still adore you with your hands around my neck, or I did last time I checked,” uncover the complexities within their relationship. There’s an intensity that borders on the toxic, hinted at by the mention of hands around the neck, yet there’s an undeniable adoration that persists. This mix of danger and love reflects the tumultuous nature of the emotions involved.
The song then shifts to a reflection on the struggle of living up to expectations and the fear of failure with “Not shy of a spark. A knife twists at the thought that I should fall short of the mark. Frightened by the bite, though it’s no harsher than the bark.” This metaphorical language suggests the pain and fear of not meeting some unseen standard, highlighting the internal conflicts that accompany his feelings.
When the lyrics mention, “But I crumble completely when you cry. It seems like once again you’ve had to greet me with goodbye,” it speaks to the fragility of the speaker when faced with the emotional turmoil of their partner. The recurring theme of having to say goodbye, possibly hinting at a cycle of breakups and reconciliations, adds to the sense of a fraught relationship that’s hard to let go of.
The song concludes with a repetition of the journey back to “505,” emphasizing the cyclical nature of the relationship and the speaker’s unwavering desire to return, symbolized by the final image of “waiting lying on your side with your hands between your thighs and a smile.” This could indicate a hopeful or perhaps fantasized reconciliation, demonstrating the enduring pull of the connection despite its challenges.
In short, “505” by Arctic Monkeys masterfully captures the essence of a deeply passionate yet troubled relationship, using vivid and emotive language to convey a sense of longing, conflict, and the unrestrained desire to return to the one they love. It’s a song that resonates with anyone who’s ever been caught in the storm of a complex relationship, making it a compelling piece of modern rock storytelling.
