Meaning of "Gasoline" by Halsey

The lyrics of "Gasoline" delve into the complex nature of mental health, societal expectations, and the internal struggles many people face. It highlights the artist's experiences with feeling isolated, depressed, and disconnected from others. The repeated question of "Are you insane like me?" highlights the desire to find someone who can relate to these feelings and experiences, looking for validation and understanding. The idea of buying an expensive bottle of champagne only to pour it down the drain, or using a water bill to dry a stain, symbolizes a disregard for materialistic values and a rejection of societal norms. The chorus speaks to the pressure to conform and the feeling of being trapped in a machine-like existence. The notion of having a "face all made up, living on a screen" points to the superficiality of our modern society and the pressure to maintain a certain image. The mention of being low on self-esteem suggests that the speaker may use external validation, such as likes and comments on social media, as a way to feel temporarily worthy.

The bridge of the song reveals a sense of inner turmoil and a struggle to find peace. The speaker acknowledges that there may be a fault in their code, implying a deep internal conflict or confusion. The voices that won't leave them alone may represent intrusive thoughts or negative self-talk that plague their mind. The statement that their "heart is gold and hands are cold" reflects the internal struggle between their genuine emotions and the coldness that comes from feeling disconnected and misunderstood. Overall, "Gasoline" conveys a message of wanting to find connection, feeling trapped in society's expectations, and grappling with inner demons.