Lyric discussion by Kyan 

Cover art for Tongue lyrics by R.E.M.

I think this is about being used and wanting to forget it. "you want a room with a fire escape" suggests their partner just wants to have sex and leave. I think it's about being in an unequal relationship and not feeling like you can escape. It screams of regret "call my name, here I come. your last ditch lay, will I never learn?" The other person calls, and they come running, just to be used again. The line about ugly girls suggests low self esteem, perhaps she feels she can't do any better?