Meaning of "Hittin' the Bottle Again" by John Lee Hooker

"Hittin' the Bottle Again" by John Lee Hooker delves into the theme of self-destructive behavior as a coping mechanism for heartbreak and loneliness. The lyrics paint a picture of a man who has lost his woman and finds solace in alcohol, even though he knows it is not good for him. The repetition of "Hittin' the bottle again" emphasizes the cyclical nature of his drinking, suggesting a pattern of attempting to numb the pain with alcohol. The line "Ever since she's been gone" highlights how the absence of his woman has driven him to this destructive behavior. Despite being warned by the doctor not to drink, the singer continues to down a quart a day, showing a lack of regard for his own well-being in the face of emotional turmoil. The bar room becomes his refuge, symbolizing a place where he can escape from his inner turmoil. Overall, the lyrics capture the desperation and despair of someone who has lost love and has turned to alcohol as a crutch to ease the pain.