The meaning of Bizarre Love Triangle by New Order

New Order's 1981 single "Bizarre Love Triangle" is a standout track that has captivated listeners for decades with its infectious beat and enigmatic lyrics. At first glance, the song may seem like a straightforward love triangle between three people: Peter, Jane, and me. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that the lyrics are far more complex and open to interpretation.

The song's narrator is often seen as the "other man" in the love triangle, but it's difficult to pinpoint his exact role or motivations. Is he the aggressor, seeking to win Jane's affections away from Peter? Or is he merely a confidant, caught in the middle of their tumultuous relationship? The ambiguity is intentional, leaving listeners to fill in the gaps with their own experiences and emotions.

The lyrics themselves are a masterclass in subtlety, with Bernard Sumner's deadpan delivery adding to the song's mystique. "What more could I know?" he repeats, as if searching for answers that may never come. The chorus, "It's a bizarre love triangle," becomes a refrain, emphasizing the absurdity and complexity of human relationships.

Musically, "Bizarre Love Triangle" is a "futuristic" blend of post-punk and new wave, with Peter Hook's driving bassline and Stephen Morris' propulsive drums creating a sense of tension and release. The song's climax, where Sumner's vocals soar above the instrumentation, is both exhilarating and heart-wrenching.

In many ways, "Bizarre Love Triangle" is a "timeless" classic, its themes of love, desire, and confusion remaining just as relatable today as they were when the song was first released. It's no wonder that it has become one of New Order's most beloved and enduring tracks.