is wormwood and the gall: Wormwood is a plant with a bitter taste. Here, it represents deep emotional pain (Proverbs 5:4; Revelation 8:11).
Gall refers to a poisonous plant. If someone eats it, it causes strong physical pain. Because of this, it became a symbol for extreme suffering and distress (Deuteronomy 29:18; Psalm 69:21).
The author feels trapped, as if there is no way out of his suffering.