Meaning of "Heart Attacks" by Alkaline Trio

The lyrics of "Heart Attacks" by Alkaline Trio delve into the themes of tragedy, drug abuse, and the struggle to cope with loss. The narrator begins by acknowledging that it is time for them to leave a certain situation. The imagery of a painting on the ceiling and footprints in the snow suggests a state of longing and reminiscing. However, the tone shifts dramatically as the song reveals the tragic discovery of a person's body on Christmas morning under a tree in the front yard. This event is met with screams, mourning, and sympathy cards, alluding to a profound sense of grief and sorrow.

The reference to "Hydrocodone acid-washed brain" highlights the presence of drug abuse, suggesting that the deceased individual may have struggled with addiction. This substance abuse is further emphasized with "Oxycodone acid-washed brain." The repetition of the line "That boy's been dead since childhood" suggests that the person in question may have been psychologically and emotionally lost long before their physical passing. There is a sense of frustration and regret as the narrator yearns to be left alone to analyze the "sour power of surprise" and the notion that life can be unexpectedly cut short at a young age due to heart attacks.

Throughout the lyrics, the narrator expresses their own emotional struggle and the impact the event has had on the family. The line "To keep your dad from throwing up at least 3 times a day" reveals the profound grief experienced by the father. The mention of the mother's pounding fist and freezing in the car portrays her intense anguish.

The closing lines "I'd kill for a drink, casket to carry, try not to think about you dead and buried" encapsulate the narrator's desperation and desire to numb their pain. The reference to a casket highlights the finality of death and the inability to forget the loss. The song ultimately explores the devastating effects of tragedy and the lasting impact it has on those left behind.