Christian Brothers

Elliott Smith's song 'Christian Brothers' delves deep into the turmoil of battling inner demons and the struggle for self-control. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with their darker side, symbolized by the 'bad dream fucker' who tries to dominate them. The mention of 'Christian brothers' suggests a desire for redemption or salvation, possibly through the support of others or a higher power. However, the protagonist acknowledges that this external help cannot fully resolve their internal conflict, highlighting the complexity of their emotional and psychological state.

The recurring line 'Don't be cross it's sick what I want' reveals a sense of guilt and self-awareness about their desires, which they recognize as unhealthy or destructive. This internal conflict is further emphasized by the imagery of the 'boss' blinking on and off, representing the fluctuating control over their impulses and the superficiality of societal concerns. The protagonist's refusal to shake hands with someone who pretends to care underscores their disillusionment with insincere gestures and the lack of genuine understanding from others.

The song's climax, where nightmares become a clear and inescapable part of the protagonist's reality, encapsulates the overwhelming nature of their struggles. The raw and explicit language used by Smith conveys the intensity of these emotions, making the listener feel the weight of the protagonist's despair. 'Christian Brothers' is a poignant exploration of the battle between one's darker impulses and the yearning for redemption, set against a backdrop of disillusionment with superficial societal norms.