Me and My Wine

Def Leppard's 'Me and My Wine' is a raw and candid exploration of the escapism found in alcohol. The song paints a vivid picture of a night filled with drinking and the subsequent disarray that follows. The protagonist finds himself in a state of disorientation, wandering through the alleyways and waking up in a subway station, unable to recall the events of the previous night. This narrative captures the chaotic and often destructive nature of excessive drinking, highlighting the temporary solace it provides while also underscoring the inevitable consequences.

The lyrics delve into the protagonist's internal conflict, where his brain and body are 'running on different rails.' This metaphor suggests a disconnect between his thoughts and actions, a common experience for those who turn to alcohol as a means of coping. The repeated refrain of 'me and my wine' emphasizes the protagonist's reliance on alcohol as a companion, a source of comfort in moments of loneliness and confusion. Despite the messiness of his situation, he insists that he is 'doing fine,' a statement that rings with a sense of denial and resignation.

Culturally, 'Me and My Wine' reflects the rock and roll lifestyle often glamorized in the 1980s, a time when excess and rebellion were celebrated. Def Leppard, known for their hard rock sound and energetic performances, encapsulates this ethos in the song. The gritty, unpolished nature of the lyrics and the driving rhythm of the music mirror the tumultuous journey of the protagonist. Ultimately, the song serves as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of escapism and the underlying struggles that often accompany it.