Meaning of "On Again Off Again" by The Riverboat Gamblers

The song "On Again Off Again" delves into the hardships and frustrations associated with seeking medical treatment in a system that is portrayed as bureaucratic, unfeeling, and profit-driven. The repetitive nature of the clinic visits and treatments highlights a sense of hopelessness and helplessness, where individuals are stuck in a cycle of dependence on medication that may not always provide relief. The lyrics capture the narrator's growing discontent with a system that seems to prioritize profit over patient well-being. By expressing feelings of discomfort, neglect, and lack of care, the song sheds light on the challenges and inequalities present within healthcare systems. Ultimately, the song speaks to a larger societal issue of the dehumanization of healthcare, where individuals are reduced to mere numbers in a system that fails to prioritize their health and well-being.