Pusher
Service Lyrics

In the song "Pusher" by Service, the lyrics depict the complexities of a tumultuous romantic relationship. The phrase “long distance lover” emphasizes an emotional disconnect that persists even in physical closeness, suggesting that the lover is not entirely present or committed to the relationship. The singer recognizes the impending departure of this person, symbolized by the line “You’ll leave me by summer.” This acknowledgment of loss gives rise to a sense of resignation; despite understanding the pain that will come from separation, the singer resolves to allow their partner to leave. This dynamic captures a feeling of inevitability that often accompanies relationships where one party is emotionally distant or uncommitted, underscoring a profound sense of longing and helplessness.

As the narrative progresses, the lyrics reflect on the struggle to cope with abandonment. The singer expresses a desire to be left with something meaningful rather than being handed off to someone else, exemplified by the plea “Just leave me with something.” This line suggests a yearning for more than just a fleeting encounter; the singer wants a lasting impression, a sensation of love that transcends mere physicality, instead of being redirected to “a guy you know.” The term "Pusher" evokes the concept of someone who manipulates emotions or relationships for personal gain, hinting at the toxic aspects of the affiliation. The singer's insistence on leaving with a "rush" rather than a crutch speaks to the struggle between the desire for genuine love and the fear of falling into dependency, reinforcing the fragility of their emotional state.

The following stanza reflects the singer’s self-awareness and frustration as they realize that this relationship may be unworthy of their emotional investment. Lines like “You’re the wrong one to cry for” suggest a realization that the individual they are mourning may not deserve their tears, hinting at a betrayal of trust or deep disappointment. This contradiction between feeling heartbroken yet recognizing the futility of longing after someone who does not reciprocate affection illustrates the internal conflict experienced in such relationships. The acknowledgment of watching this person leave, despite the pain it causes, further emphasizes the complex feelings of love, possessiveness, and the inevitable heartache that can accompany a relationship that feels predestined to fail.

In the closing lines, the singer wrestling with feelings of conflict asks, “what gives man?” and “what for?” This indicates a deep-seated confusion and the search for answers in a situation that seems unjust. The imagery of “White nights, all night” reflects a sense of sleeplessness and turmoil that accompanies heartache, while “I’m a pusher man, I can do it right” could portray the singer as someone who engages in a cycle of tempting or pushing love, even when aware of its complications. While they may feel forced into a role that involves coping with pain and heartbreak, there is also a suggestion of agency in their willingness to confront these feelings. The line also reinforces the singer's complex interaction with love and violence, both personal and relational—tying the tumultuous nature of longing into a metaphor for addiction and push-pull dynamics in human connections.