Used To
Juice WRLD
The Painful Echoes of Moving On
Juice WRLD's song "Used To" delves into the emotional turmoil following a breakup and the artist's struggle with loneliness and self-destructive behavior. The lyrics express a sense of numbness to the pain that once felt unbearable, indicating a progression in the healing process, albeit a flawed one. Juice WRLD admits to using someone as a means to cope with his pain, acknowledging that this behavior is not typical for him. The reference to Ike Turner, who was infamously abusive, serves as a stark contrast to assure that despite his flaws, he would never physically harm someone he cares about.
The repeated lines about crashing the car, heartbreak, and having no friends paint a picture of a cycle of self-destruction and isolation. Juice WRLD uses these metaphors to describe how he's coping with his sorrow—recklessly and alone. The imagery of being left 'frozen in the snow' by his last relationship signifies being stuck in a moment of despair, unable to move forward. The song's chorus, 'It don't hurt as bad as it used to,' suggests a desensitization to the pain, which could be interpreted as healing or, conversely, a concerning detachment stemming from his ongoing struggles.
The song is a candid reflection of Juice WRLD's inner battles with love, loss, and loneliness. It's a raw portrayal of the artist's vulnerability and the unhealthy ways in which he deals with his emotions. The dark themes of the song are representative of Juice WRLD's musical style, which often explores themes of heartache, mental health, and substance abuse, resonating with listeners who have faced similar challenges.