Poison
Jackson Wang
The Toxic Allure of Unrequited Love in Jackson Wang's 'Poison'
Jackson Wang's 'Poison' delves into the emotional turmoil of unrequited love and the self-destructive behaviors that often accompany it. The song's protagonist finds himself trapped in a cycle of longing and despair, symbolized by the metaphor of 'drinking poison.' This poison represents the emotional pain and heartache he endures as he watches the object of his affection with someone else. Despite knowing the detrimental effects, he continues to indulge in this toxic behavior, unable to break free from his feelings.
The lyrics highlight the protagonist's internal struggle and confusion. He repeatedly questions why he continues to 'drink the poison,' indicating a lack of understanding of his own actions. This confusion is compounded by his awareness of his own downfall, as he acknowledges that the person he desires sees him 'falling.' The repetition of 'I don’t know why' underscores his helplessness and the irrational nature of his emotions.
The song also touches on themes of loneliness and isolation. The protagonist describes himself as 'drinking all alone' and feeling 'misunderstood.' His introverted nature and the emotional distance between him and the person he loves contribute to his sense of isolation. The reference to 'the bottle' suggests that he may be using alcohol as a coping mechanism, further emphasizing the self-destructive cycle he is caught in. The song paints a vivid picture of the pain and confusion that often accompany unrequited love, making it a poignant and relatable piece for many listeners.