The song "Messages" by Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark is about the pain and confusion of a strained relationship. The lyrics speak to the frustration of trying to communicate with someone who seems determined to keep their distance. The singer expresses their feelings of not being able to fully understand the other person's actions and intentions. The song talks about the difficulty of trying to move on from a past relationship when the other person continues to send mixed signals and messages. The singer feels the burden of not being able to forget, especially when the other person remains elusive and unreachable. The use of "coded messages" and "poison letters" suggests that the communication from the other person is causing emotional harm and confusion. The singer struggles with the idea that communication could bring hope to the situation, as memories are "uncertain friends" when dredged up by these messages. Overall, the song conveys the frustration and anguish of trying to make sense of a relationship that seems doomed to remain unresolved. The longing for closure and understanding is palpable in the lyrics.
