Meaning of "Hair of the Dog" by Ramones

The phrase "hair of the dog" refers to the belief that the best cure for a hangover is to have more alcohol, specifically the same drink from the night before. This song captures the cycle of heavy drinking and hangovers, with the narrator acknowledging the self-destructive behavior of relying on alcohol to cure the pain caused by alcohol. The repetition of the phrase "hair of the dog" reinforces the idea of being trapped in a pattern of excess and seeking temporary relief without addressing the underlying issues. The lyrics also touch on the idea of never learning from past mistakes and being stuck in a cycle of repetition. Overall, the song serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of alcohol abuse and the destructive pattern it can create in one's life.