Meaning of "Subtle Poison" by Screaming Trees

"Subtle Poison" by Screaming Trees delves into the theme of toxicity and the consequences of allowing negative influences to shape one's life. The lyrics depict a sense of suffocation and entrapment as the subtle poison of another person's influence infiltrates the narrator's life, clouding their judgment and creating a feeling of impending doom. The walls closing in symbolize the inescapable consequences of allowing toxic individuals to have influence and control over one's thoughts and actions. The repetition of the phrase "What are you gonna do now" emphasizes a feeling of helplessness and the realization that the narrator needs to take action to break free from the toxic cycle. Ultimately, the song serves as a warning against allowing toxicity to seep into one's life and highlights the importance of recognizing and removing such harmful influences before they consume us entirely.