Meaning of "This Drinkin' Will Kill Me" by Dwight Yoakam

"This Drinkin' Will Kill Me" by Dwight Yoakam delves into the destructive nature of heartbreak and the subsequent numbing effect of alcohol. The narrator is caught in a downward spiral of pain and self-destructive behavior, unable to cope with the agony of lost love. The lyrics illustrate a sense of hopelessness and resignation, as the narrator acknowledges that no matter which path they take - drowning their sorrows in alcohol or trying to heal from the breakup - the outcome seems bleak. The juxtaposition of death from a broken heart or from excessive drinking highlights the desperation and anguish the narrator is experiencing. Despite warnings from the preacher and the doctor about the dangers of alcohol, the narrator is consumed by the overwhelming grief of the lost relationship. The repetitive plea to the bartender to "hit the throttle" reflects a desire to escape the emotional turmoil, even if it means succumbing to the numbing effects of alcohol. Ultimately, the song portrays a poignant exploration of heartbreak and the destructive patterns that can emerge in its aftermath.