Joy Division's album "Closer" released in 1980, carries a profound and multifaceted meaning that resonates with the band's musical style and the themes they explore in their lyrics.
1. Intimacy and Connection: The title "Closer" suggests a desire for closeness, intimacy, and connection with another person. It evokes the longing to bridge the gaps and come together, both physically and emotionally. This theme often weaves through Joy Division's music, which explores the complexities of human relationships and the pursuit of meaningful connections.
2. Closing In (Death and Mortality): On a darker note, "Closer" also alludes to the inevitability of death and the encroaching darkness that often surrounds it. The album's lyrics frequently delve into themes of mortality and the acceptance of life's end. The title "Closer" could symbolize the notion that death comes closer with each passing moment.
3. Closer to the Edge (Intense Experiences): The title can also be interpreted as a reference to pushing boundaries and seeking intense experiences. Joy Division's music is often characterized by its melancholic, brooding atmosphere, which they masterfully contrast with moments of soaring emotion and sonic intensity. "Closer" could symbolize a desire to delve deeper into these intense emotional states and explore the limits of human experience.
4. Wordplay: As you mentioned, the spelling of "closer" and "door" is the same. This creates an ambiguity that invites multiple interpretations. The title could suggest that the album explores the idea of closing doors on the past or opening new ones to the future.
5. A Summation: Ultimately, the title "Closer" encapsulates the essence of Joy Division's music and lyrical content. It encapsulates their exploration of emotional intensity, the longing for connection, the inevitability of mortality, and the pursuit of meaningful experiences.