Meaning of "Overdose" by AC/DC

The lyrics of "Overdose" explore the theme of addiction in a metaphorical sense, using the concept of overdose to convey the intensity of the narrator's love for this woman. The song can be interpreted as a cautionary tale about the dangers of becoming too reliant on someone or something. Initially, the narrator acknowledges that he has always abstained from cigarettes and alcohol, suggesting he leads a clean and controlled life. However, despite his best efforts, he finds himself falling into a destructive pattern with this woman. The line "You gave me somethin' I never had" suggests that the woman introduced him to a level of love and affection he had never experienced before. But while he acknowledges her overwhelming presence, he also implies that it has become suffocating. He refers to her as a "habit" and admits that he's "sinking fast" in his current state.

The repetition of "I overdosed on you" emphasizes the all-consuming nature of his addiction to her. By comparing it to an overdose, the lyrics imply that his infatuation has reached a dangerous level, causing him to lose control and potentially lose his life. The line "I was as happy as a man can be, too far gone to save" suggests that he was once content in the throes of this relationship, but now recognizes the dire consequences. The mention of the grave at the end alludes to the narrator's awareness that this addiction will ultimately be his downfall. The lyrics convey a sense of despair and powerlessness, as the narrator admits there's "nothing [he] can do" to escape this destructive relationship.

Overall, "Overdose" presents a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of addiction, using the metaphor of overdose to explore the overwhelming and suffocating effects of an infatuation. The song serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining balance and recognizing when a relationship or dependency becomes unhealthy.