Meaning of "All Messed Up" by Sum 41

"All Messed Up" delves into the internal battles and struggles of the speaker, who feels overwhelmed by their altered state of mind. The lyrics capture a sense of frustration, confusion, and hopelessness that can often accompany mental and emotional turmoil. The repetition of the phrase "All messed up" reflects the constant cycling of negative thoughts and the inability to find stability.

The protagonist feels trapped in their own mind, unable to escape the voices that haunt them. They describe living like the dead, suggesting a profound feeling of detachment and a lack of vitality. The lyrics also touch on the exhaustion that comes with mental and emotional distress. The protagonist is running overtime, unable to keep up with the demands of life. Their struggle becomes physical, to the point where they can't even hold down their meals.

The line "I hold my only enemy as closely as a friend" speaks to the self-destructive tendencies the protagonist exhibits. They have become their own worst enemy, willingly accepting negative thoughts and actions as familiar and comfortable. They have sold their own reality in pursuit of further descent, indicating a deliberate choice to indulge in destructive behavior.

The lyrics also hint at the desire for help and support. The protagonist longs for someone to "drag their heels" and provide guidance during this difficult time. This plea suggests a longing for connection and understanding, as well as hope for a way out of the turmoil.

Overall, "All Messed Up" encapsulates the internal struggles of someone grappling with their own mind, seeking stability and an escape from the negativity and self-destruction that plagues them.