Pulling Teeth

In 'Pulling Teeth,' Slow Joy delves into the emotional turmoil and the quest for reassurance in the face of inner darkness. The song's title itself is a metaphor for the painful and arduous process of seeking comfort and validation. The repeated line, 'I bet you’re sick of pulling teeth,' suggests a sense of guilt and awareness of the burden placed on a loved one who is constantly trying to provide support. This imagery paints a vivid picture of the struggle to find peace and the reliance on someone else to help navigate through personal despair.

The lyrics reveal a deep sense of self-awareness and vulnerability. The lines 'I paint the world like a cynic lately' and 'I wear you down by the minute' highlight the narrator's recognition of their negative outlook and the impact it has on their relationship. Despite this, there is a plea for understanding and patience, as seen in 'Tell me if I go too far, you’ll still be here when my head gets dark.' This plea underscores the fear of abandonment and the need for unconditional support during moments of mental and emotional darkness.

The song also touches on themes of dependency and the desire for stability. The lines 'Lock me up and toss the key, do what you need to stay with me' and 'I need you in my veins when I'm hollow' convey a desperate need for the presence of a loved one to feel whole and secure. This dependency is portrayed as a 'bitter pill to swallow,' acknowledging the difficulty and complexity of relying on someone else for emotional stability. Through its raw and honest lyrics, 'Pulling Teeth' captures the essence of struggling with inner demons and the yearning for reassurance and steadfast support from a loved one.