Alcohol

Gogol Bordello's song "Alcohol" delves into the complex and often tumultuous relationship between the narrator and alcohol. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love-hate dynamic, where alcohol is both a source of solace and a cause of turmoil. The opening lines, "Yeah o yeah you seen me walk / On burning bridges," suggest a history of self-destructive behavior, with alcohol playing a central role. The narrator acknowledges the chaos and damage caused by their drinking, yet there's an undeniable attachment, almost a dependency, on alcohol to navigate life's challenges.

The chorus, where the narrator repeatedly thanks alcohol, highlights the duality of their relationship. On one hand, alcohol is credited with helping them survive difficult times, as seen in the lines, "And you know that I'll survive / Every time you come / Just to thank you one more time / For everything you've done." On the other hand, there's an underlying sense of regret and apology, particularly when the narrator says, "And I'm sorry some of us / Given you bad name." This suggests a recognition of the negative impact alcohol can have, not just on the individual, but on society as a whole.

The song also touches on the creative influence of alcohol, with lines like "Now you teach me how to rhyme - alcohol." This could be interpreted as alcohol being a muse for the narrator, providing inspiration and a means of expression. However, there's a cautionary note in the lyrics, warning against the potential dangers of this relationship, as seen in the line, "Just don't stab me in the back with cartisol." The song concludes with a sense of inevitability, as the narrator accepts that they will always return to alcohol, despite the highs and lows it brings. This bittersweet acceptance encapsulates the essence of the song, portraying alcohol as both a friend and a foe in the narrator's life.