Lice

Jack Stauber's 'Lice' is a surreal and enigmatic song that delves into themes of self-sacrifice, desperation, and the complexities of human relationships. The lyrics are cryptic, yet they paint a vivid picture of someone who is willing to go to great lengths, even to the point of self-harm, to address the complications and needs of another person. The opening lines, 'Tuck you into bed / Slip out, see you later,' suggest a caretaker role, someone who ensures the well-being of another before attending to their own, possibly darker, needs.

The phrase 'Cut my own head (ow) / Half-broken flesh calculator' is a striking metaphor for self-destruction and the dehumanizing effects of constantly calculating one's worth or actions in terms of another's needs. The 'bag full of co-o-o-oins' could symbolize the emotional or material resources the narrator is willing to expend, highlighting a sense of desperation and sacrifice. The mention of 'ancient loin' adds a layer of primal, almost instinctual drive to this sacrifice, suggesting that these actions are deeply rooted in human nature.

The chorus, 'Row, row, row, ro-ow / Take a look at your friends too / And go, go, go, whoa-oh / That's what gets you,' shifts the focus to a broader social context. It implies that the narrator's actions are not isolated but part of a larger pattern of behavior observed in their social circle. The repetitive 'row' and 'go' evoke a sense of relentless motion, perhaps indicating that this cycle of sacrifice and desperation is ongoing and pervasive. Stauber's unique blend of surrealism and emotional depth invites listeners to reflect on their own relationships and the lengths they go to for others.