Meaning of "How's My Driving, Doug Hastings?" by Less Than Jake
The meaning of the lyrics seems to revolve around the consequences and dissatisfaction that can arise from engaging in reckless behavior. The narrator and Doug are portrayed as being under the influence of drugs and alcohol, which leads them to make impulsive choices and engage in questionable actions. This is evident in lines such as "Friday night on coke with a crow bar" and "I'm not going out like this." The repeated phrase "Looking for somethin', somethin', yeah, for ourselves" indicates a search for meaning or fulfillment, but it is clear that the narrator feels unsatisfied and disillusioned with their current lifestyle. This is highlighted by the line "And this makes no sense to me, It ain't the way, The way its supposed to be."
The character of Doug serves as a reflection of the narrator's own frustrations and dissatisfaction. When the narrator says "Fuck, Doug, I'm not going out like this," it can be interpreted as a rejection of the reckless and empty lifestyle represented by Doug. The line "Man, I'm all I got and I won't be missed" suggests that Doug has resigned himself to his current situation, perhaps feeling that he has nothing else to live for. Meanwhile, the narrator expresses a desire for something more meaningful and fulfilling.
Overall, the lyrics convey a sense of disillusionment and a longing for something greater than the wild and destructive lifestyle portrayed. It explores themes of self-reflection, dissatisfaction, and the need for change. The narrator recognizes that their current path is not fulfilling and is seeking a different way of living.