Meaning of "Best Friend" by Foster The People

The lyrics of "Best Friend" delve into the themes of friendship, addiction, and unwavering support. The opening lines convey the narrator's commitment to doing everything possible to uplift their best friend and prevent their addiction from overshadowing their life. The lyrics also suggest that addiction is a cyclical struggle, indicated by the recurring phrase "it comes in waves." The narrator acknowledges the initial difficulty of addressing the issue but stresses the importance of persistence in helping their friend overcome it.

The song vividly describes the contrasting emotions experienced by both the narrator and their friend. The line "Feelings sleeping in the field again" signifies the temporary numbness or detachment one might feel when struggling with addiction. However, the narrator is aware that these feelings are bound to resurface, and they anticipate the eventual end of their friend's struggle. The mention of "premonitions smiling in the dark" suggests a sense of hope amidst the darkness, highlighting the narrator's optimism for their friend's recovery.

The lyrics continue to depict the complex emotions and challenges faced in supporting someone with addiction. The line "I've been a spoken word, I've been a river bed, I've been a rabid force" portrays the various roles the narrator has taken on in their efforts to help their friend. Their determination to let their emotions and support flow out from within is evident. The mention of dreaming in black and white represents a lack of vibrancy and vitality, contrasting with the desired state of experiencing life in full color.

The recurring chorus reinforces the narrator's commitment to always be there for their friend, no matter the circumstances or location. The imagery of "waves in theta slipping into dreams" conveys a state of relaxation and introspection, emphasizing the importance of finding peace amidst struggles. The line "wilted pleasures leave you with a breath" suggests that even in the midst of chaos and challenges, there is beauty to be found. The lyrics overall suggest that the journey of helping a friend with addiction is not easy, but the narrator's unwavering support and belief in their friend's ability to overcome prevail throughout the song.