Meaning of "Some Riot" by Elbow

The song "Some Riot" by Elbow delves into the heartbreaking journey of watching a friend self-destruct through addictive behaviors and inner turmoil. The imagery of the friend growing brambles around him symbolizes how he is being entangled and held back by his own destructive tendencies. The reference to alcohol turning him into a "terrible totem" suggests that the friend's true self is being obscured by his reliance on substances to cope with his inner demons. The narrator's lament that his friend is trying to hide or drown a riot when drinking speaks to the underlying turmoil and pain that his friend is trying to escape from. The plea for the friend to start singing again signifies a hope for healing and transformation, as music is often a symbol of catharsis and inner expression. Overall, the lyrics paint a poignant picture of witnessing a loved one's struggle with their own darkness and addiction, and the longing for them to find their way back to a place of joy and authenticity.