The Hives' song "Missing Link" tells the story of someone who easily gives up and follows every whim, causing them to lose their mind before they even have a chance to start something meaningful. The "missing link" refers to the protagonist's weak point or flaw that hinders their progress. The lyrics call for the person to give it a try in order to overcome this obstacle. The song goes on to describe how this person continually repeats the same cycle, waking up with no friends and facing difficulty in their job and financial situation. The "missing link" has left them beaten, battered, and bruised, having created more problems than they had initially. Despite attempting to break free from their troubles, the missing link still remains a part of them. The lyrics highlight the pressure and strain this person constantly faces, making it difficult for them to stay sane. Every day feels repetitive, and they eventually realize that the blame lies within themselves. They try to distance themselves from the missing link, but it still has a hold on them. The song suggests that the missing link has pushed the protagonist to the brink, leaving the world in a state of decay. Despite this, the person picks up the pieces of their life, putting in a lot of effort without receiving any rewards. The cycle continues as they struggle to make ends meet and face the consequences once again. The overall meaning of the song seems to emphasize the challenges and consequences that arise from easily giving up and following every whim. The missing link symbolizes a weak point or flaw within oneself, and the lyrics urge the listener to confront and overcome it.
