Beneath the Deception | We'Ve Been Had | The Walkmen

The song "We've Been Had" by The Walkmen is a hauntingly beautiful track that explores themes of deception, heartache, and the struggle for truth. The lyrics are deeply personal and introspective, with lead singer Hamilton Leithauser's distinctive vocals delivering a poignant narrative.

At its core, "We've Been Had" is a song about being taken advantage of, whether it's by another person or even by one's own desires. The opening lines set the tone for a sense of betrayal and disillusionment: "I woke up this morning with your voice in my ear / And I knew that we'd been had." These words convey a sense of regret and longing, as if the speaker is trying to make sense of what has happened.

Throughout the song, The Walkmen's instrumentation adds depth and texture, with driving guitars and pulsing drums creating a sense of tension. Leithauser's voice soars above these rhythms, delivering lines that are both deeply personal and universally relatable: "I thought I was the one who knew the score / But it seems like we've been had again."

The song also touches on themes of love and relationships, with Leithauser's lyrics exploring the complexities of human connection. He sings about trying to hold onto something that has slipped away, and the pain of realizing too late what has happened: "I thought I saw you smiling at me / But it was just a trick of the light." These words capture the bittersweet nature of love and loss.

Ultimately, "We've Been Had" is a song about the search for truth and authenticity in a world that can be full of deception. The Walkmen's music has always been characterized by its emotional intensity and literary depth, and this song is no exception. With its soaring vocals and driving rhythms, "We've Been Had" is a standout track from one of indie rock's most beloved bands.