I think it is a song about growing up, and specifically the hardships of growing up, with references to a father who was not there, being shamed, and fighting these issues, like turning to a friend, who kills the pain "only for a day". Whilst this can be interpreted as a song about turning to drugs, the authenticity seems to me as this is possibly a song directly about Matt and Brad's childhood, as they had many problems as children and often referred to themselves as dirt poor. All in all it is a brilliant and simple song that shows Matt's ability as a singer and lyricist.
I think it is a song about growing up, and specifically the hardships of growing up, with references to a father who was not there, being shamed, and fighting these issues, like turning to a friend, who kills the pain "only for a day". Whilst this can be interpreted as a song about turning to drugs, the authenticity seems to me as this is possibly a song directly about Matt and Brad's childhood, as they had many problems as children and often referred to themselves as dirt poor. All in all it is a brilliant and simple song that shows Matt's ability as a singer and lyricist.