Meaning of "UGH!" by The 1975

The lyrics of "UGH!" by The 1975 delve into the complex topic of addiction, delving into both drug addiction and codependency. The song opens by addressing someone pacing and using other people's faces as a mirror, implying that they are seeking validation or reassurance from others. The mention of filling lungs and lost gum sensation indicates drug use. The narrator then acknowledges their longing for escape and their perceived need for a diuretic to avoid empathy and continue giving into their addictive habits.

The lyrics further explore the dynamics of a codependent relationship, where the narrator seeks support and help from their partner. However, they also express a sense of frustration and dissatisfaction, claiming that their partner isn't fulfilling their role in helping them recover. The mention of lying about liking life better without money indicates a desire for financial independence, which conflicts with their addiction. This internal conflict adds complexity to the song's meaning.

The chorus reveals the narrator's obsession with the person they are dependent on. This person becomes the sole focus in their mind, and their addictive tendencies begin to take over their life once again. Despite this, the narrator acknowledges their own limitations, admitting they lack the emotional capacity to engage in a healthy, intimate relationship. This highlights the codependency dynamic and how it perpetuates their addictive habits.

The bridge of the song introduces the idea that the "kick," or the temporary high, won't last long, and the length of the song metaphorically reflects this. The narrator's mention of losing their phone and asking the person to call it up for them suggests a reliance on others even for basic tasks. They know it's wrong, but they still ask for one more indulgence.

Overall, the lyrics of "UGH!" convey a sense of the narrator's struggle and inner turmoil regarding addiction and dependency. The song's meaning intertwines themes of substance abuse, codependency, the desire for independence, and the cycle of relapse and recovery.