Morning Elvis

Florence + The Machine's song 'Morning Elvis' delves into the tumultuous life of a performer, capturing the highs and lows of fame, addiction, and the quest for redemption. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the artist's internal battles, juxtaposed with the iconic figure of Elvis Presley, a symbol of both the pinnacle of success and the pitfalls of fame. The mention of being dressed and put on a plane to Memphis, only to end up sweating it out in a hotel room, reflects the disillusionment and isolation that often accompany a life on the road. The reference to Graceland, Elvis's home, serves as a metaphor for an unattainable sanctuary or peace that the artist longs for but never quite reaches.

The recurring theme of making it to the morning and the stage underscores the artist's struggle with survival and the pressure to perform. The line 'I should've come with a warning' suggests a self-awareness of the chaos and unpredictability that the artist brings, while 'I'll show you what it means to be saved' hints at the transformative power of music and performance. The imagery of being picked up in New Orleans and pinned in a bathroom stall conveys a sense of physical and emotional collapse, yet there's a glimmer of hope in the promise of seeing everyone with Elvis if the night is survived.

The song also touches on the cyclical nature of addiction and the relentless pull of the music industry. Despite swearing to quit after every tour, the artist is drawn back by the 'call' and the songs that 'beg to be born.' This reflects the paradox of creation and destruction that many artists face. The repeated refrain of 'to be spared' at the end of the song emphasizes the desire for mercy and a reprieve from the relentless demands of fame and personal demons. 'Morning Elvis' is a poignant exploration of the cost of artistic passion and the search for redemption amidst chaos.