Meaning of "No Relief" by Defeater

The lyrics of "No Relief" delve into themes of trauma, heartbreak, and the struggle to find solace or escape from painful memories. The protagonist grapples with surviving past traumas only to be faced with the agony of a breakup, represented by the letter addressed to "Dear John." The repetition of the line "How did I make it out alive?" signifies a sense of disbelief at their current state, still haunted by the past. The reference to pulling the rig out of someone's arm suggests addiction or dependence, adding another layer of pain and complexity to the protagonist's struggles. The advice from the wise man about there being no relief underscores the idea that some wounds may never fully heal, and the past will continue to haunt the person no matter where they go. Overall, the lyrics paint a poignant picture of someone grappling with internal demons and the harsh realities of life, finding no respite or escape from the pain that plagues them.