Meaning of "Bargain Basement Howard Hughes" by Jerry Cantrell

The lyrics delve into a mixture of regret and reflection on past actions that have caused pain to someone else, admitting to being controlling, selfish, and deceitful. The references to Howard Hughes, a famous but reclusive figure, suggest a comparison to feeling isolated and misunderstood. The repetition of washing hands and pulling splinters reflects a desire to clean up the mess that was made, although the damage done cannot be easily repaired. Despite the acknowledgment of past wrongs and a willingness to change, there is an underlying sense of sorrow for lost opportunities and a recognition of the impact of one's actions on others. Overall, the song conveys a sense of introspection and acceptance of past mistakes while striving for redemption and self-improvement.