Kills You Slowly

The Chainsmokers' song 'Kills You Slowly' delves into the complexities and emotional turmoil of a deteriorating relationship. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a couple who are stuck in a cycle of pretense and unresolved conflicts. The protagonist acknowledges their repeated mistakes, such as being late and getting drunk, which contribute to the strain in the relationship. Despite these issues, both partners continue to 'dress up and play pretend,' acting as if everything is fine when, in reality, they are far from it.

The chorus, 'Hold it, even though it kills you slowly,' encapsulates the essence of the song. It speaks to the emotional burden of maintaining a facade of happiness while hiding the 'explosions' of their true feelings. This line suggests that both partners are aware of the damage their relationship is causing, yet they choose to hold on, perhaps out of hope or fear of letting go. The repeated phrase 'hopin' it gon' stop, but it don't' further emphasizes the futility of their efforts to mend what is broken.

Cultural references, such as walking a mile in Louis Vuittons, add a layer of irony and materialism to the narrative. These luxury items symbolize the superficial aspects of their relationship, which are ultimately 'fucked up' and meaningless in the face of deeper emotional issues. The song's structure, with its repetitive lines and escalating tension, mirrors the cyclical nature of their arguments and the slow, painful decline of their relationship. 'Kills You Slowly' is a poignant exploration of the emotional toll that comes with holding onto something that is slowly destroying you from the inside out.