Cloud 9

Brookfield's song 'Cloud 9' delves into the harrowing experience of watching a loved one succumb to the grips of addiction. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who has lost their way, living in an 'altered reality' far removed from their daily life. The metaphor of 'cloud 9' typically represents a state of bliss, but here it is twisted to signify a dangerous high, induced by substance abuse. The 'white powder world' is a clear reference to cocaine, highlighting the destructive nature of the addiction that has taken over the person's life.

The narrator's anguish is palpable as they express a longing for the return of the person they once knew. The repeated question, 'Do I have to lay out all my cards?' suggests a sense of desperation and helplessness. The narrator is willing to do anything to bring their loved one back from the brink, but they are also terrified of what they might find. The imagery of pale skin and the comparison to snowflakes falling evoke a sense of fragility and impending doom, emphasizing the physical and emotional toll of the addiction.

The song also touches on the theme of lost integrity. The line 'You lost your sense of integrity in your white powder world' suggests that the person has compromised their values and self-worth in pursuit of their next high. The heart 'trapped in your own vice' symbolizes how the addiction has taken control, leaving the person a mere shadow of their former self. Brookfield's poignant lyrics and haunting melody create a powerful narrative about the devastating impact of addiction, both on the individual and those who care about them.