"Give It All Back" by Ultravox is an emotional and introspective song that delves into the themes of regret, redemption, and the desire to make amends. The lyrics depict a sense of guilt and remorse, where the singer acknowledges that they have been deceitful and have caused harm to someone else. The line "So the victim ever comes And the lies won't give at all" alludes to the consequences of their actions catching up with them and the inability to continue hiding the truth. The singer questions themselves, wondering who asked for a change, indicating a longing for personal transformation and a desire to make things right. The repeated phrase "Give it all up, give it all back" suggests a plea to undo the damage that has been done, to give up the lies and deception, and to return what has been taken. This can be interpreted as a metaphorical surrender, letting go of the deceit and taking responsibility for the consequences. The lines "So to be strong never men Does he hold out for a brand new world Who said things could change? Try! And how we try Could break down lies Tell me what's my line?" reflect the struggle to maintain strength and hope for a better future. The singer acknowledges that change is difficult and can be met with resistance, yet they emphasize the importance of trying to overcome the lies and deceit that have been perpetuated. Overall, "Give It All Back" explores the internal conflict within a person who realizes their mistakes and hopes for redemption. It conveys a sense of remorse and the need to make amends, while also highlighting the challenges in achieving personal growth and genuine change.
