Still Love

Teenage Wrist's song "Still Love" delves into the complexities of self-perception, guilt, and the enduring power of love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with their inner demons and past mistakes. The opening lines, "Bad news on my breath, I gotta smoke it out," suggest an attempt to mask or escape from personal issues. The imagery of "bad teeth" and "smash it up" further emphasizes a sense of self-destruction and dissatisfaction with oneself. Despite these negative feelings, the recurring line "But I still love" introduces a glimmer of hope and resilience.

The song continues to explore themes of self-loathing and regret. The protagonist acknowledges their flaws and shortcomings, describing themselves as "the shame and the sin of men" and "the mistakes of my future son." This self-awareness is coupled with a sense of worthlessness, as expressed in the line "Worth less for all I’ve done." However, the question "Could I still love" suggests a yearning for redemption and the possibility of love despite these perceived failings. The juxtaposition of self-criticism and the capacity for love highlights the internal conflict many people face.

In the final verse, the song shifts focus to another person, possibly a loved one, who also bears emotional scars. The lines "Bloodied knuckles and blackened eyes, you wear your bruises like a disguise" depict someone who hides their pain behind a tough exterior. The fear of expressing their true feelings is evident in "what you fear the most are the words stuck in your throat." Yet, despite these struggles, the person continues to love, mirroring the protagonist's own journey. This shared resilience underscores the song's central message: love can persist even in the face of personal turmoil and emotional wounds.