Medicine

James Arthur's song 'Medicine' is a heartfelt ode to a significant other who acts as a source of strength and healing. The lyrics convey a deep sense of gratitude and reliance on a partner who provides emotional support during times of distress. The metaphorical language used throughout the song likens the partner to various forms of protection and relief, such as a bulletproof vest, guardian angel, and medicine, emphasizing their importance in the singer's life.

The song delves into the theme of love as a saving grace. Arthur describes his partner's ability to alleviate his pain and suffering, suggesting that their love has a transformative power that can pull him out of dark mental states, even when he feels 'suicidal' or caught in a 'spiral.' The repeated chorus, with its references to adrenaline and being better than ever before, underscores the revitalizing effect the partner has on him. The imagery of a heart beating faster than adrenaline and the partner being a cure for scars paints a vivid picture of the intense emotional and physical response elicited by their presence.

Cultural references, such as moving to LA and wearing Balenciaga, are woven into the lyrics, adding a layer of aspiration and glamour to the narrative. These lines suggest a desire for escape and transformation, reinforcing the theme of the partner as a means to a better, more fulfilling life. The song's portrayal of love as both a luxury and a necessity speaks to the complex ways in which relationships can serve as both aspirational fantasies and fundamental human needs.