Midnight, lock all the doors
Keep playing that song all day
Just the sound of traffic
The patron of you switching lanes
San Diego, Hard Rock hotel
Wondering why I came
I said I’ll try not to think of you
If you say you don’t feel the same
Ooohh, Ooohh
Ohh, you’re reluctant cause you know I’ll leave you nothing to see
Ooohh, Ooohh,
I’ll be self-destructing when your beautiful corruption touches me
Feels like the end of the world
Right in this new poor town
Ohh, I should have kept quiet
Yeah I should have shut my stupid mouth
The long table
The boomerang
Travelling way down south
And it’s ironic cause it’s probably the last time that you see me around
Ooohh, Ooohh
Ohh, you’re reluctant cause you know I’ll leave you nothing to see
Oh yeah
Ooohh, Ooohh,
I’ll be self-destructing when your beautiful corruption touches me
I said I’ll be self-destructing when your beautiful corruption touches me
Unraveling the Emotional Layers of “Beautiful Corruption”
Charlie Puth’s “Beautiful Corruption” invites listeners into a late-night world of vulnerability, regret, and fleeting connections. The opening lines evoke a sense of isolation—locked doors, the hum of distant traffic, and introspective thoughts. The narrative unfolds in a San Diego hotel, where the protagonist grapples with the aftermath of a relationship teetering on the edge. Puth’s expressive vocals and evocative lyrics paint a picture of longing for what could have been, entwined with the pain of knowing the feeling isn’t mutual.
Thematic Depth: Love, Loss, and Self-Destruction
Throughout the song, the motif of “beautiful corruption” is a powerful symbol—a love so intoxicating it leads to self-destruction. The chorus echoes this tension, as the protagonist acknowledges the dangers of succumbing to a love that ultimately hurts. The references to missed opportunities and regretful words reflect the universal experience of wishing we could take back moments, making the track relatable and haunting. Puth expertly balances vulnerability and resilience, creating a song that resonates with anyone who has faced the bittersweet end of romance.
Song Credits
Artist: Charlie Puth
Songwriters: Charlie Puth
Release Year: Not specified
Label: Not specified