Elliott Smith's 'Bottle Up and Explode!' is a song that delves into themes of internal turmoil and emotional suppression. The lyrics capture the intense struggle of bottling up emotions and the inevitable breakdown that follows. Smith uses vivid imagery and a confessional tone to explore the psychological pain and the aching need for release. Key moments in the song, such as 'We'll get used to hearing it, ringing in our ears' highlight the harrowing effects of this emotional suppression. The song is a poignant reflection on the destructive nature of keeping feelings hidden and the subsequent fallout.