Toxic
Kehlani
The Allure and Agony of Toxic Love in Kehlani's 'Toxic'
Kehlani's song 'Toxic' delves into the complexities of a tumultuous relationship that is both addictive and destructive. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love that is hard to let go of, despite its harmful effects. The recurring theme of taking turns being wrong highlights the cyclical nature of their toxic interactions, where accountability and self-reflection only come when they are apart. This separation brings clarity, but also a deep sense of longing, making it difficult to break free from the cycle.
The mention of Don Julio, a brand of tequila, serves as a metaphor for the intoxicating and impairing effects of the relationship. The alcohol lowers inhibitions, leading to impulsive actions like reaching out to the ex-lover. The repeated phrases 'ra-ra-ra' and 'da-da-da' mimic the nonsensical and emotional outbursts that often accompany such late-night, alcohol-fueled decisions. The love described in the song is likened to a drug, emphasizing its addictive nature and the difficulty of quitting it despite knowing its toxicity.
Kehlani also touches on the physical aspects of the relationship, describing passionate encounters that are replayed like a favorite song. These moments of intimacy are powerful enough to make her consider changing her behavior and waiting for her partner, despite the evident problems. The term 'problematic' is used to describe the partner's behavior, acknowledging the drama and acrobatics involved in their interactions. Yet, there is an undeniable attraction to the 'static' and chaos, making it hard to resist. The song captures the essence of a love that is both thrilling and damaging, a common theme in many modern relationships.