The lyrics of "Chemical Courage" depict a person who has been using substances to cope with their emotions but has reached a point where they realize the negative impact it has had on them. They feel alone, lost, and unable to find a way back to feeling safe.

Meaning of "Chemical Courage" by Jack Savoretti

"Chemical Courage" delves into themes of substance abuse, loneliness, self-doubt, and a sense of emptiness. The narrator expresses how they have been using substances as a form of escape to feel alive and brave, but now they have reached a turning point where they are faced with the consequences of their actions. The lyrics detail a journey of self-realization, acknowledging the emptiness that comes from relying on external sources for courage and the fleeting nature of such false courage. The mention of angels, light on tears, and praying for a new day all suggest a yearning for redemption and hope for a brighter future, despite the struggles faced in the present. Ultimately, the song conveys a message of coming to terms with one's vulnerabilities and the need to find inner strength without resorting to harmful coping mechanisms.