Meaning of "Emily" by Catfish And The Bottlemen

The lyrics of "Emily" convey a sense of longing for change and a need for escape. The protagonist, who is in his early twenties, feels stuck in his current situation and seeks solace in the bustling city of New York. He is yearning for something to pick him up and take him out of the monotonous company he keeps.

The mention of Emily phoning him to smoke together and discussing love represents a connection and a source of comfort for the protagonist. This implies that their relationship provides an escape from his current circumstances, offering a space for him to reflect on his experiences with love.

The protagonist admits that he has lost his way and patience at times. This suggests that he has struggled with navigating relationships and the challenges they bring. However, in his moments of frustration, he finds solace in his ability to write songs. The lyrics imply that these songs become his outlet and salvation, helping him to cope with emotions and pay for his vices, such as cigarettes. The repetition of the line "The kind that dragged me out from nowhere" emphasizes the cathartic and transformative power that his music holds for him.

Overall, "Emily" is a song that explores themes of escapism, love, and self-discovery. It depicts a young protagonist who seeks solace in music and the company of others, particularly Emily, as a means to overcome personal challenges and find redemption from past experiences.