The song "Treadin' Water" by Joan Jett and The Blackhearts is about a person who is stuck in a relationship that is suffocating and not fulfilling. The lyrics compare the feeling of being in this relationship to treading water, struggling to stay afloat while feeling tired and worn out. The protagonist expresses that their partner's actions are wasting their time and making them feel like they are drowning. The love they once had has become overwhelming, dragging them down and breaking their spirit. The repetition of "treadin' water" emphasizes the feeling of being stuck and unable to move forward. As the song progresses, the protagonist realizes that they can no longer handle the situation. They start to recognize that they are in too deep and cannot stay afloat any longer. They decide to let go and go with the flow, accepting that it is time to end the relationship. The chorus highlights the exhaustion and frustration the protagonist feels from treading water in their stagnant relationship. They express their desire to move on and find something better, as they are no longer willing to tolerate the current situation. Overall, "Treadin' Water" conveys a message of empowerment and the importance of recognizing when a relationship is no longer healthy or fulfilling. It encourages listeners to let go of what is dragging them down and find the strength to move on.
