Meaning of "Sugar Drunk High" by James Bay

"Sugar Drunk High" explores the theme of youth and the bittersweetness of growing up. The lyrics paint a picture of a sentimental wasteland, a world where feelings and experiences are exaggerated or distorted. The protagonist and their friends live in a state of blissful naivety, indulging in simple pleasures like chewing gum and drinking cherry coke, while their brains burn with the excitement of youth. The song captures the carefree spirit and whimsical adventures of adolescence, where the biggest worries revolve around chasing dreams and living in the moment.

Through the references to shedding tears for movie scenes and the bitter taste of nicotine on their clothes, the lyrics allude to the fabricated emotions and experiences that often define youth. The sentimentality is contrasted with the line "Not old enough for enemies," suggesting that the characters are not burdened by conflicts or adversaries. Instead, their lives are filled with harmless mischief and a sense of invincibility.

The chorus of the song highlights the special bond and shared experiences among the group of friends, portraying them as the only ones in their own world. They live in a cocoon of happiness and bliss, unaware of the passing of time or the responsibilities that come with adulthood. The repetition of the phrase "sugar drunk high" further emphasizes the euphoria and temporary nature of their carefree existence.

However, the song also acknowledges the transience of youth. The line "Maybe never be found, like a drop in the ocean" implies that the memories and experiences of their youth may become lost and forgotten as they grow older. The lyrics hint at an awareness that the characters will eventually have to face the reality of growing up and leaving behind the carefree days. The sentiment "If we ever grow up, we'll be gone in the moment" encapsulates the idea that their youth is fleeting, and they must cherish the present because it will soon be gone.

In essence, "Sugar Drunk High" is a wistful and reflective song that captures the nostalgic longing for a time when the protagonist and their friends were young, free from responsibilities, and embraced the thrill of youth. It highlights the exhilarating and intoxicating nature of that carefree existence, while also acknowledging that those moments are temporary and will eventually give way to the challenges and realities of adulthood.