The lyrics describe a man named Sonny who wakes up feeling sick, drinks excessively, and contemplates suicide by passing around a gun. He reflects on his reckless behavior and toxic relationships, ultimately expressing a desire to escape his current state by floating away in a river.

Meaning of "Pass The Gun Around" by Alice Cooper

The lyrics of "Pass The Gun Around" by Alice Cooper delve into themes of self-destructive behaviors, substance abuse, and escapism. Sonny's character symbolizes a person trapped in a cycle of addiction and negative experiences, using alcohol and fleeting relationships as a temporary escape from reality. The repeated notion of passing the gun around represents a shared sense of despair and hopelessness among individuals who feel overwhelmed by their circumstances. The desire to float away in the local river signifies a longing for a fresh start, a chance to cleanse oneself of past mistakes and start anew. Overall, the song serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of using self-destructive coping mechanisms to deal with internal struggles and urges listeners to seek help and find healthier ways to navigate life's challenges.