23

Chase Atlantic's song '23' delves into the chaotic and often destructive lifestyle of a young woman navigating her early twenties. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a life consumed by parties, drugs, and a search for identity and meaning. The protagonist, referred to as 'baby,' has been dancing under the lights since she was seventeen, indicating a long history of nightlife and escapism. Her brain is 'flooded with ketamine,' a metaphor for her heavy drug use, which serves as both a coping mechanism and a source of her deteriorating mental health. The song captures the highs and lows of this lifestyle, from the euphoria of the party scene to the crushing lows of self-esteem issues and the need for sympathy.

The narrator's perspective adds another layer to the song, as he grapples with his own struggles and his complicated relationship with 'baby.' He admits to being on pills again and feeling lost, highlighting the mutual dependency and shared turmoil between them. The city's influence is palpable, with its allure and pitfalls contributing to their downward spiral. The narrator's internal conflict is evident as he oscillates between wanting to leave and feeling drawn back into the chaos. This duality reflects the broader theme of being trapped in a cycle of self-destruction and the difficulty of breaking free.

The song also touches on themes of mental health and the search for solace. The narrator's plea for therapy and the acknowledgment of needing help underscore the desperation and pain underlying their hedonistic lifestyle. The repeated line 'baby's only twenty-three' serves as a poignant reminder of the youth and vulnerability of the protagonist, emphasizing the tragic nature of their situation. The song ultimately portrays a raw and unfiltered look at the struggles of young adulthood, marked by a quest for identity, fleeting moments of joy, and a pervasive sense of emptiness.