Meaning of "Tea & Thorazine" by Andrew Bird

The lyrics of "Tea & Thorazine" delve into the theme of mental health and the constraints and struggles that come with being in a mental institution. The mention of the etch-a-sketch represents a longing for a simpler time or a wish for control and agency over one's life, as the speaker feels trapped and powerless in their current state. The references to laughter, delirium, and reaching conclusions hint at a sense of lost clarity and identity due to medication and external control, while the idea of creating "an alternate reality" suggests a coping mechanism or an escape from the harsh realities of the institution. Additionally, the mention of Doctor B could symbolize a figure of authority or a specific person responsible for the speaker's struggles. Overall, the lyrics evoke a sense of longing for autonomy and a life free from constraints and medication, highlighting the complexities and challenges of mental health.