Use Once And Destroy

Hole's song 'Use Once And Destroy' delves deep into themes of emptiness, pain, and the aftermath of destructive relationships. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the emotional void that follows a significant loss or betrayal. The opening lines, 'It's the emptiness that follows you down / It's the ache inside when it all burns out,' set the tone for the entire song, highlighting the lingering pain and the sense of hollowness that remains when something once cherished is gone. This emptiness is described as 'poisonous,' suggesting that it not only lingers but also actively harms the person experiencing it.

The song's chorus, 'It might as well, it might as well hurt,' suggests a resignation to the pain, as if acknowledging that the hurt is inevitable and perhaps even necessary. This acceptance of pain is a recurring theme in Hole's music, often reflecting the tumultuous life of the band's lead singer, Courtney Love. The lyrics also touch on themes of rescue and sacrifice, with lines like 'I went down to rescue you / I went all the way down,' indicating a willingness to endure suffering for the sake of another. This self-sacrificial love is portrayed as both noble and tragic, as it often leads to further pain and disillusionment.

The imagery in the song is stark and evocative, with references to 'bitter roots,' 'twisted insides,' and 'blister burns.' These metaphors convey a sense of deep-seated anguish and the physical toll that emotional pain can take. The repeated refrain of 'off with her head' alludes to a sense of finality and the brutal end of something once vital. The song's closing lines, 'Ooh, I will follow you / Anytime, anywhere,' suggest a lingering attachment and a refusal to let go, even in the face of overwhelming despair. This haunting dedication underscores the song's exploration of the complexities of love, loss, and the enduring impact of emotional wounds.