If I Get High
Nothing But Thieves
Escaping Reality: The Yearning in 'If I Get High' by Nothing But Thieves
Nothing But Thieves' song 'If I Get High' delves into themes of longing, escape, and the search for connection. The lyrics paint a picture of someone yearning to reunite with a lost loved one, possibly through transcendent or altered states of consciousness. The repeated phrase 'If I get high enough' suggests a desire to reach a different plane of existence where they might reconnect with the person they miss. This could be interpreted both literally, as in using substances to alter one's state of mind, or metaphorically, as in achieving a heightened emotional or spiritual state.
The imagery of meeting 'at the divide' and breaking the spell indicates a crossing over from one realm to another, symbolizing the boundary between reality and the desired reunion. The idea of two worlds colliding and rebelling against the constraints of the current reality underscores the intensity of the protagonist's desire to escape their present circumstances. The repetition of 'And we run' emphasizes the relentless pursuit of this escape, suggesting a sense of urgency and determination.
The song also touches on the physical and emotional toll of this longing. The line 'I feel my lungs every night' could refer to the physical act of breathing, perhaps strained by anxiety or sadness, while 'I dream of our escape' highlights the mental and emotional focus on reuniting with the lost loved one. The overall tone of the song is one of desperation and hope, as the protagonist clings to the possibility that they might see their loved one again if they can just reach that elusive 'high' state.