Cruel Summer

Only Fire's 'Cruel Summer' is a raw and unfiltered exploration of heartbreak, self-doubt, and hedonistic escapism. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a summer marred by emotional pain and the protagonist's attempts to cope with the aftermath of a failed relationship. The repeated refrain, 'It's a cruel summer, I got my heart broke, now I'm a sad bitch, and I wanna do coke,' encapsulates the central theme of the song: the intense emotional turmoil and the desire to numb the pain through substance use.

The lyrics delve into the protagonist's introspection and self-questioning, as seen in lines like 'Was my mouth too small? Was my pussy too tight? Was my tongue too short? Was my left boob too right?' These questions reflect a deep sense of insecurity and self-blame, common reactions to being left by a partner. The song also touches on the protagonist's sexual experiences and frustrations, adding another layer to the emotional complexity. The mention of 'a late cummer' and the dissatisfaction with the partner's performance in bed highlight the physical and emotional disconnect that contributed to the heartbreak.

Cultural references and explicit imagery are used throughout the song to emphasize the protagonist's hedonistic coping mechanisms. The repeated mentions of 'white powder' and 'white juice' symbolize the use of drugs and sexual liberation as means to escape the pain. The provocative and unapologetic language used by Only Fire challenges societal norms and taboos, making 'Cruel Summer' a bold statement on the raw and often messy nature of human emotions and relationships. The song's candidness and explicit content serve to underscore the intensity of the protagonist's feelings and the lengths they are willing to go to find solace, however temporary it may be.