The Problem

Song Meaning

This song frames an overwhelming romantic feeling as a physical ailment, a 'problem' that can't be solved by conventional means. The narrator insists their issue isn't mechanical, like a 'diesel Cummins engine,' but something far more internal and unfixable. It’s a condition tied directly to the heart, suggesting a deep emotional wound or obsession that defies practical solutions. The central tension lies in the narrator's struggle to understand and control this powerful emotion, which they identify as 'love.' This 'little stir of emotion' is anything but small, causing sleepless nights and a pervasive sense of unease. The lyrics highlight the disorienting effect of love, making the familiar surroundings of 'walls and my furniture' seem altered, and even a professional eye exam leads back to the source of the trouble: 'all I saw was you.' The most striking aspect is the framing of love as an incurable sickness. When the narrator seeks medical advice, the doctor's diagnosis is bleak: 'Son, there's no cure, gotta let it play through.' This resignation to the uncontrollable nature of love, coupled with its potent 'big old bite,' underscores the helplessness felt when consumed by such a strong emotion. The repetition of 'big old bite' in the final chorus amplifies the persistent, almost aggressive nature of this 'problem.' Ultimately, the lyrics resonate because they capture the universal experience of being blindsided by love, portraying it as a force that disrupts life and defies logic. The comparison to a physical malady, complete with a doctor's visit and a lack of remedy, makes the overwhelming nature of romantic feelings palpable and relatable, even as it emphasizes the unique, personal struggle of the narrator.