Lyric discussion by diklik 

Cover art for Gave Up lyrics by Nine Inch Nails

Vasoline is used as a metaphor in this song. Vasoline is used in the song to explain something that is used for its healing purposes but still doesn't fix the job - think about it "covered in hope and vasoline but still cannot fix this broken machine". Yes its that simple, it really isn't about gay sex or masturbation.

And seriously, what is with straight guys who wanna suck trent off?