GREAT MISTAKES CONFRONT MENTAL HEALTH STRUGGLES IN “SECOND-HAND SUICIDE”

For once, the title of a song is not hyperbolized or referential. Instead, Great Mistakes has decided to venture into tricky territory: mental health topics. Their latest single, “Second-Hand Suicide,” carefully depicts the struggle of internal isolation that few feel confident talking about so candidly. Thankfully, in their case, it works; songs like this can quickly read as tacky—however, not this one, which feels more empathetic and authentic to its words.

For example, the narrative repeatedly mentions a “wasted life.” I believe that’s less referential to the trope that often comes with this topic. Instead, the song encourages those who struggle with internal battles. These often remain unseen, as the general public continually proves to be unkind to those who are different. Fascinatingly, the group is made up of lifelong friends. They went through a separation period, but reconnected and formed Great Mistakes. This adds layers to the song’s vulnerability, continuing my hope of honesty within it.

Direct comparisons for Great Mistakes include The Dirty Nil, with the band’s gritty, DIY sound at its forefront. However, there’s a hint of early Motion City Soundtrack sprinkled throughout. Many forget about the legacy group’s roots, which leaned heavily on the same choices that Great Mistakes make, even lyrically. What we may not have expected, though, is the way that Great Mistakes’ overall core messaging is still relevant two decades later.

While controversial, the idea of “suicide” at the song’s forefront is tasteful. It avoids glamorizing suicide while still commanding the audience’s attention merely through its mention.

Overall, “Second-Hand Suicide” represents a new generation of punk that still manages to uphold its core values. Remember, punk rock is more than just music; it is a cultural movement that is rooted in acceptance. For something to be true “punk,” one must not be afraid to use one's voice.