Meaning of "Pain" by The War On Drugs

The lyrics of "Pain" delve into the complexities of personal growth and the struggles it entails. The line "Go to bed now I can tell, Pain is on the way out now" suggests that the narrator is aware that pain is a necessary part of growth and change, and that they are starting to see a way forward. However, they acknowledge the difficulties of self-reflection and the frustration of knowing that tomorrow might bring back the same struggles and uncertainties.

The line "I met a man with a broken back, He had a fear in his eyes that I could understand" brings empathy and understanding into the narrative. It implies that the narrator has encountered someone who is battling their own internal struggles, mirroring their own search for meaning. The inability to shake the man's hand, despite understanding his fear, hints at a barrier between the narrator and others, possibly representing a struggle with connecting or empathizing on a deeper level.

The repeated lines "I've been pulling on a wire, but it just won't break" and "I've been turning up the dial, but I hear no sound" reflect the frustration of trying to change or find something elusive. It suggests that the narrator has been putting in effort and seeking a breakthrough, but is met with resistance or a lack of progress. The resistance they feel may not only be external but could also stem from their own limitations or inability to let go of certain things.

The chorus, "Pull me close and let me hold you in, Give me the deeper understanding of who I am," conveys a longing for connection and self-discovery. The narrator seeks solace and insight from someone else, hoping they can provide a deeper understanding of themselves. This desire for understanding and connection is juxtaposed with the line "I'm here all alone, just begging," highlighting the vulnerability and sense of isolation that the narrator experiences.

Overall, the meaning of "Pain" revolves around the universal human experience of grappling with personal growth, the frustration of the unknown, and the desire for connection and understanding. It explores the emotional complexities of these themes and reflects on the challenges and limitations that come with them.