She Keeps Me Up

The song 'She Keeps Me Up' by Nickelback uses a series of metaphors and cultural references to address the theme of cocaine use. The lyrics begin by describing a female figure who makes the narrator nervous and exhilarated, comparing her to a flower and highlighting her irresistibility. This figure is actually a personification of cocaine, a drug known for its stimulating and euphoric effects.

The expression "Coca-Cola rollercoaster" is a direct reference to the history of Coca-Cola, which originally contained cocaine in its formula. The rollercoaster mentioned symbolizes the intense and volatile emotions that drug use provokes. The phrase "Love her even though I'm not supposed to" reveals the narrator's awareness of the dangers and destructive nature of cocaine, but also his inability to resist it. The repetition of "She keeps me up" reinforces the idea that the drug keeps the user awake and restless throughout the night.

The lyrics also touch on the social impact of cocaine use, mentioning that "everybody wants to be the sister's mister" and "I can't trust my friends 'cause she's what everybody chases." This suggests that the drug is widely desired and consumed, creating an environment of distrust and competition among users. The line "I know where she's been 'cause it's on everybody's faces" is a reference to the method of cocaine consumption, which is often snorted, leaving visible traces on users' faces.

The song, therefore, not only describes the physical and emotional effects of cocaine but also explores the complex social and personal dynamics involved in drug use. The combination of metaphors and cultural references makes the lyrics rich and multifaceted, offering deep insight into the theme being addressed.