Introduction
Polygraph Eyes isn’t just a song; it’s a bold statement about the hidden dangers many face, especially women, when they go out. At just 21 years of age, Dominic Harrison (Yungblud) demonstrated a remarkable maturity and sensitivity in addressing such a critical issue. His ability to weave a gripping narrative with raw emotion makes this song deserving of far more critical acclaim than it has received. The song was released January 19, 2018, and thus it celebrated its 7 year release.
Through its hauntingly direct lyrics and striking music video, Polygraph Eyes exposes the uncomfortable realities of predatory behavior and the fine line between a night out and a life-altering trauma.
Breaking Down the Video and Lyrics
The music video vividly portrays the song’s events, immersing viewers in the dark reality of the situation. Dom’s storytelling ability shines as he sings from the perspective of both an observer and someone pleading for accountability. The juxtaposition of innocence (a night out with friends) and danger (the moment someone takes advantage) is stark and unforgettable.
Key lyrics such as “She slurs when she speaks, But you hear what you want when she can’t even talk” hit hard because they’re unfiltered and unrelenting in their honesty. These are not just words; they are a call to action. The song demands that we stop excusing behavior that crosses the line and instead hold people accountable.
Here’s a clip of Dom discussing Polygraph Eyes in his own words, offering insight into why he felt compelled to write it:
A Song That’s Still Relevant Today
Years later, the song’s message remains as critical as ever. The unfortunate reality is that nights out still carry risks, and young people—particularly women—must remain vigilant. Some simple precautions include:
• Never accepting drinks from strangers.
• Keeping drinks in sight at all times.
• Checking in regularly with friends and having a plan to get home safely.
For those who may be new to these ideas or need a refresher, here’s an infographic outlining key safety tips:
Toxic Relationships: The Unseen Danger
But Polygraph Eyes also opens the door to a broader discussion: abuse doesn’t stop when the night is over. For some, it continues in the form of toxic relationships and domestic abuse.
It’s important to recognize the signs of an unhealthy relationship, such as:
• Extreme jealousy or possessiveness.
• Verbal abuse or constant criticism.
• Isolation from friends and family.
• Controlling behavior over finances, decisions, or your time.
Abuse is never the victim’s fault, and help is available.
Seeking Help and Knowing Your Rights
In the UK, a little-known law called Clare’s Law allows individuals to request information from the police about whether their partner has a history of domestic abuse. This can be a vital tool for anyone who has concerns about their safety in a relationship.
For anyone in need, here are some helplines and resources:
UK
• National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247
• Clare’s Law Info: Clares-law.com
US
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
• Love Is Respect (Dating Abuse Helpline): 1-866-331-9474
Conclusion
Polygraph Eyes is more than a song; it’s a lifeline. It’s a reminder that music can spark conversations that save lives. Dom’s decision to tackle such a heavy subject at a young age shows his commitment to using his platform for good, and it’s up to all of us to amplify this message.
Video
Lyrics
She leaves her parents house around midnight
Meets her best mate at the shop buy some cheap wine
And go to space
See the Milky Way
Get away from the teenage everyday cliche pressure
Absent on absinthe dancing, to bad synths
Saturday night ain’t about romancing anymore
Just you getting lit in the queue to the dance floor
Too many blokes are getting heavy
When a girl looks unsteady
Blisters on your bleeding soles
“Here have my boots, I’ll walk you home”
He walks her straight up to the front door
As she stumbles on the floor
We all know what happens next
A bit of fun turns to regret
Leave it alone mate, she doesn’t want to go home with ya
Home with ya, no
Leave it alone mate, she doesn’t want to go home with ya
Home with ya
Leave it alone mate, she doesn’t want to go home with ya
Home with ya, no
Leave it alone mate
Leave it alone mate
Leave it alone mate
Daylight wakes her up the next morning
A foreign room where the sheets are blue, and not white
No scented candles in sight
Just a stranger on his side
Says “Cheers love for last night”
Got to go forensic
Avoid the domestic
Get antiseptic
And give him the polygraph eyes
Turn your head to the side and lie to the real life
See this girl, she had a boyfriend
His name was Zach and he made her happy
But he couldn’t understand
In his mind she was a slag
(A fucking slag!)
When she tried to explain what happened
She was shouting at him for an hour
Crying at the top her lungs
“Don’t leave me here
You’re the one I love”
Leave it alone mate, she doesn’t want to go home with ya
Home with ya, no
Leave it alone mate, she doesn’t want to go home with ya
Home with ya
Leave it alone mate, she doesn’t want to go home with ya
Home with ya, no
Leave it alone mate, she doesn’t want to go home with ya
Home with ya
She can’t even run
She can’t even walk
She slurs when she speaks
But you hear what you want when she can’t even talk
She can’t even run
She can’t even walk
She slurs when she speaks
But you hear what you want when she can’t even talk
Can’t even talk
Can’t even talk
(Can’t even talk)
(Can’t even talk)
Leave it alone mate, she doesn’t want to go home with ya
Home with ya, no
Leave it alone mate, she doesn’t want to go home with ya
Home with ya
Leave it alone mate, she doesn’t want to go home with ya
Home with ya, no
Leave it alone mate, she doesn’t want to go home with ya
Home with ya
Leave it alone mate
She can’t even run
Leave it alone mate
She can’t even walk
She slurs when she speaks but you hear
What you want when she can’t even talk
Leave it alone mate
She can’t even run
Leave it alone mate
She can’t even walk
She slurs when she speaks but you hear
What you want when she can’t even talk