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Strychnine
The Vindictives Lyrics


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Some folks like water
Some folks like wine
But I like the taste
Of straight strychnine

You may think it's funny
That I like this stuff
But once you've tried it
You can't get enough

Wine is red
Poison is blue
Strychnine is good
For what's ailin' you
[x2]

If you listen to what I say
You'll try strychnine some day
Make you jump, it'll make you shout
It'll even knock you out

Some folks like water
Some folks like wine
But I like the taste
Of straight strychnine

Strychnine (hey, hey) [x4]

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of The Vindictives's song "Strychnine" describe the artist's preference for the taste of a toxic substance - strychnine. The song starts with a comparison between two common drinks - water and wine, but then the singer reveals his unusual liking. He confesses that he likes the taste of this straight poison, and though the listener may find it amusing or even concerning, the singer believes that once they try it, they'll also become obsessed with it. The chorus highlights the singer's preference for strychnine above other drinks or poisons - "wine is red, poison is blue, strychnine is good for what's ailing you."


It's unclear whether the lyrics are meant to be taken literally or as a metaphor for self-destructive behavior. It's also possible that the song was written as a parody of drug culture or as a commentary on the glamorization of dangerous substances. However, what's apparent is that the singer wants the listener to try strychnine at least once, promising that it will make them jump, shout, and even knock them out.


Overall, the lyrics of "Strychnine" are disturbing and perplexing, but they offer a glimpse into the psyche of individuals who may have an affinity for dangerous behavior or substances.


Line by Line Meaning

Some folks like water
Some people prefer to drink water as their beverage of choice.


Some folks like wine
Some people prefer to drink wine as their beverage of choice.


But I like the taste
However, I personally enjoy the flavor of a toxic substance called strychnine.


Of straight strychnine
In its purest form, without any additives or dilution, I enjoy consuming strychnine.


You may think it's funny
You might find my interest in drinking poison amusing or strange.


That I like this stuff
That I enjoy consuming strychnine, a highly toxic and dangerous substance.


But once you've tried it
However, once you have experienced the effects of strychnine for yourself,


You can't get enough
It can become addictive, and you may find yourself craving more of this toxic substance.


Wine is red
Wine typically has a red color.


Poison is blue
Poison can have a blue color, although the color can vary depending on the type of poison.


Strychnine is good
Despite being highly toxic, I believe that strychnine is enjoyable to consume.


For what's ailin' you
In my opinion, consuming strychnine can provide some sort of relief from a physical or emotional ailment.


If you listen to what I say
If you take my advice and consider trying strychnine,


You'll try strychnine some day
I believe that eventually, you will be curious enough to try strychnine for yourself at some point in your life.


Make you jump, it'll make you shout
The effects of strychnine can cause physical and psychological reactions, such as jumping and shouting.


It'll even knock you out
Strychnine can cause unconsciousness or other serious effects on the body.


Strychnine (hey, hey)
This phrase is a repetition of the song's title, reinforcing the idea that the singer enjoys consuming strychnine despite its toxicity.




Contributed by Leah D. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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