"Purgatory Drive" by The Growlers tells the story of a character who is stuck in a monotonous and unfulfilling life. The song describes their desperation and desire to escape their reality. The lyrics convey the feeling of being caught between work and a low-quality personal life. The protagonist avoids going home to their unhappy situation, instead resorting to drinking and spending time on the road. The reference to the "big hand" and "big hi-five" suggests that the protagonist is constantly waiting for something better to happen, but it never does. The term "Purgatory Drive" is symbolic, representing the limbo-like state the protagonist finds themselves in. They feel trapped and aimless, with no clear direction or purpose. The repetitive routine of their life becomes unbearable, and they long for a change. The song also touches upon the protagonist's memories of a lost love. They are afraid of expressing their emotions and potentially getting hurt again. There is a sense of resignation and isolation present, as the protagonist prefers to be alone rather than confront their true feelings. The line about the heart sinking and love being replaced with smoke signifies a feeling of loss and disappointment. The protagonist's love has turned into a destructive force, suffocating them emotionally. Overall, "Purgatory Drive" captures the sense of longing, dissatisfaction, and search for something more meaningful in life. It portrays the struggle of being stuck in an unsatisfying routine and the desire for escapism.
