Taste Like Venom

Gunship's 'Taste Like Venom' delves into the intoxicating and perilous nature of a toxic relationship. The song's protagonist, Rachael, is on the run from a dark secret that relentlessly pursues her. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a chaotic and hedonistic environment filled with smoke, drugs, and physical attraction. This setting serves as a metaphor for the overwhelming and destructive nature of the relationship, where the protagonist is both drawn to and repelled by the allure of their partner.

The repeated line 'You taste like venom' encapsulates the duality of the relationship. Venom, a substance that can both paralyze and kill, symbolizes the partner's dangerous allure. The protagonist is aware of the danger but is irresistibly drawn to it, to the point where they 'can't feel [their] face,' indicating a loss of self and numbness brought on by the toxic love. This numbness is both physical and emotional, highlighting the destructive impact of the relationship.

The song also touches on themes of identity and societal pressure. The line 'Everybody wants to look just like you' suggests a cult-like obsession with appearance and conformity, further complicating the protagonist's feelings. Despite the dark times and the sinister deception, the protagonist admits, 'I will always love you,' revealing the depth of their emotional entanglement. The song's haunting melody and evocative lyrics create a powerful narrative about the dangers of losing oneself in a toxic relationship, making it a compelling exploration of love, desire, and self-destruction.