treading water

Machine Gun Kelly's song "treading water" delves into the complexities of personal struggle, redemption, and the yearning for love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a life filled with emotional turmoil and the desperate need for connection. The recurring line "what a life to live when you're dying for someone to give" underscores the central theme of longing for love and acceptance, highlighting the emotional void that the artist feels.

The song's narrative is deeply personal, reflecting on the artist's own experiences with family, relationships, and personal demons. MGK candidly addresses the impact of his actions on his loved ones, particularly his children, and the guilt that accompanies his mistakes. The imagery of "the beast killed the beauty" and "the last petal fell from the rose" symbolizes the destruction of something once beautiful, perhaps a relationship or a family, due to his own flaws and choices. This self-awareness is a crucial aspect of the song, as it reveals a desire to change and make amends, especially for the sake of his daughter.

In the latter part of the song, MGK reflects on his time in rehabilitation, a metaphorical and literal space where he confronts his inner demons and the public's perception of him. The lyrics convey a sense of isolation and frustration, as he grapples with the consequences of his actions and the pressure of public scrutiny. Despite these challenges, there is a glimmer of hope and determination to find redemption, as he acknowledges the "long road to redemption" and the importance of saving his soul. This journey is fraught with temptations and failures, but it is also an opportunity for growth and self-discovery, emphasizing the transformative power of facing one's struggles head-on.