Meaning of "7" by Catfish And The Bottlemen

The lyrics of "7" by Catfish And The Bottlemen delve into themes of distance, isolation, and conflicting emotions. The repetition of the line "I'd beg you but you know I'm never home" highlights the narrator's absence, both physically and emotionally. They confess to wanting to be alone, needing time away from others, but also acknowledging their inability to fully detach from the people around them.

The song opens with the line "Larry call a load of smoke in," possibly referring to the narrator seeking an escape or numbing their emotions through drugs or alcohol. This desire to "disappear for days" suggests a longing for temporary relief from the pressures and expectations of social interaction. While the narrator may not have struggled with coping or sleeping, they express a contradictory desire to never have to struggle in these areas.

The repeated reference to being "7 hours behind" symbolizes a consistent lag or delay, both in time zones and in the narrator's ability to connect with others. They admit it is probably for the best that they didn't call, suggesting a fear of disappointing or hurting the person on the other end of the line. However, there is an underlying longing to bridge that gap and make the connection they continually avoid.

The lyrics also demonstrate the narrator's difficulty in thinking through their actions and taking the time to consider the consequences. They acknowledge their tendency to act impulsively and without foresight, resulting in missed opportunities for connection. This lack of introspection is echoed in the line "I never get time 'cause I don't think things through," emphasizing a pattern of neglecting personal growth and reflection.

In the chorus, the narrator repeats the phrase "I'd beg you but you know I'm never home." This line suggests a conflicted desire for intimacy and closeness while also craving solitude. They express a need for another year alone, highlighting a prolonged period of isolation sought out to maintain their sense of self.

Overall, "7" explores the complex emotions of the narrator, balancing the desire for connection while simultaneously protecting their own independence and personal space. The lyrics reflect a struggle with commitment and an ongoing battle between the need for solitude and the longing for intimacy.