Drag

Placebo's song 'Drag' delves into the emotional turmoil of constant comparison and the feeling of inadequacy that often accompanies it. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who perpetually feels left behind, overshadowed by another who seems to excel effortlessly in every aspect of life. This sense of lagging behind is emphasized through repetitive phrases like 'I drag behind,' which not only highlight the speaker's frustration but also create a rhythmic mantra of self-doubt.

The song uses various metaphors to illustrate the disparity between the two individuals. For instance, the line 'You're the first one to swim across the Seine' contrasts sharply with 'I lag behind,' symbolizing the speaker's struggle to keep up with the other's achievements. The Seine, a river in Paris, could also be a cultural reference, suggesting that the person ahead is not just successful but also worldly and sophisticated. Meanwhile, the speaker feels drenched and burdened, unable to match up to these lofty standards.

Another poignant metaphor is 'You're the monkey I've got on my back,' which signifies the constant pressure and nagging sense of inadequacy that the speaker feels. This 'monkey' is a relentless reminder of their shortcomings, urging them to shine but simultaneously weighing them down. The song's repetitive structure and melancholic tone encapsulate the exhausting cycle of self-comparison and the emotional drag it creates. Placebo, known for their alternative rock style and introspective lyrics, effectively capture the essence of this internal struggle, making 'Drag' a relatable anthem for anyone who has ever felt overshadowed or left behind.