Meaning of "Under the Influence" by Elle King

The lyrics of "Under the Influence" delve into the theme of addiction, both to substances and to people. Elle King portrays a person who is trapped in a cycle of destructive behavior, unable to escape the grip of their addiction, whether it is to drugs, alcohol, or a toxic relationship. The singer conveys the desperation and powerlessness felt in the face of temptation and the irresistible force that draws her back into her vices. The line "Your kiss is my addiction" suggests that the toxic love she experiences with this person is just as addictive and potentially damaging as any substance.

The repetition of the phrase "Under the influence" throughout the song serves as a reminder of the singer's constant state of being controlled and governed by these habits or this person. It reflects a loss of control and a surrender to the destructive forces in her life. The lyrics also touch on the acceptance of consequences and the willingness to endure them, even if they are potentially life-threatening. This emphasizes the desperation and the strong pull that addiction holds over the singer.

The line "The walls are closing in, it's inevitable" poignantly captures the feeling of being trapped and unable to escape the consequences of her actions. The singer seems resigned to her fate, admitting that she cannot seem to live without the destructive love she has become addicted to. This paints a bleak picture of a person who has lost control of their life and chooses to stay under the influence, even if it means sacrificing their well-being.

Overall, the song conveys the struggle and internal conflict of someone battling addiction and the toxic power of a destructive love. It shines a light on the grip these forces can have on a person's life and the difficulty they face in breaking free. The lyrics paint a raw and honest portrayal of the singer's vulnerability and the unrelenting nature of these addictions.