Until The Plug Comes Back Around
Juice WRLD
The Desperate Cycle of Addiction in Juice WRLD's 'Until The Plug Comes Back Around'
Juice WRLD's 'Until The Plug Comes Back Around' delves deep into the harrowing experience of addiction and the cyclical nature of dependency. The song opens with a stark depiction of the protagonist's reliance on drugs, highlighting the desperation that ensues when the supply runs low. The 'plug'—a slang term for a drug dealer—becomes a pivotal figure in the addict's life, symbolizing both the source of relief and the perpetuation of the cycle of addiction. The lyrics convey a sense of urgency and irrationality, as the protagonist grapples with the need to 'ration out' pills until the next supply arrives.
Juice WRLD's introspective verses reveal the internal struggle and the pervasive darkness that accompanies addiction. He acknowledges that everyone has their demons and vices, but his own are particularly overwhelming. The imagery of counting sins and praying for victory underscores a sense of guilt and a desire for redemption. Despite achieving material success, symbolized by buying his mother a house and flaunting diamonds, Juice WRLD admits that these external markers of success are meaningless in the face of his internal turmoil. The line 'life is a mountain and niggas don't know how steep it is' poignantly captures the daunting and often insurmountable challenges of overcoming addiction.
The song also touches on the themes of mental health and the constant battle with inner demons. Juice WRLD describes feeling delirious and furious, with his demons confronting him head-on. The use of substances like lean (a mixture of codeine and soda) as a coping mechanism is depicted as both a temporary escape and a contributor to the cycle of addiction. The repetition of the chorus reinforces the relentless nature of this cycle, as the protagonist waits for the 'plug' to return, knowing that the temporary relief will only lead to further dependency. Juice WRLD's raw and honest portrayal of addiction offers a poignant commentary on the struggles faced by many, shedding light on the complexities of mental health and substance abuse.