Meaning of "Broken Whiskey Glass" by Post Malone

"Broken Whiskey Glass" by Post Malone delves into the artist's personal struggles, successes, and ambitions. The opening lines suggest a history of substance abuse, as Post Malone references drinking codeine from a broken whiskey glass and indulging in drugs and pills. These vices represent a coping mechanism and perhaps a self-destructive cycle that he has been trapped in. By sharing these experiences, he doesn't glorify drug abuse but rather addresses the realities he has faced.

The song continues by discussing Post Malone's dissatisfaction with traditional employment and the desire to break away from the nine-to-five grind. He portrays himself as someone who has worked hard, even breaking his back for the system, but finds it unfulfilling. The line "so you can take your nine-to-five and shove it up your ass" exemplifies his defiance towards societal expectations and his determination to find success on his own terms.

Post Malone then shifts the focus to his music career, highlighting his rise to fame and the lessons he has learned along the way. He acknowledges the skepticism he faced from those who didn't take him seriously, but now that he's making hits, he has proven them wrong. The line "Started callin' this shit, started ballin' and shit" illustrates his transition from being dismissed to becoming a recognized artist in the industry.

Throughout the song, Post Malone exhibits a sense of confidence and pride in his achievements. He boasts about the tangible symbols of success, such as the luxury brand Chanel and his lavish lifestyle, with lines like "I spilled drink on my Chanel" and "I'm poppin' a wheelie, I show off my grillie." This bravado serves as a defense mechanism, a way to shield himself from the judgment and doubt he may have encountered on his journey.

However, beneath the braggadocious exterior, there is an underlying vulnerability and the desire for recognition. Post Malone admits to feeling a sense of loneliness and yearning for validation, expressed through lines like "Some shade every night, man, it's all so familiar." He also grapples with the complexities of relationships, criticizing women who only care about material things and asserting his independence by stating "You can't get rid of me."

The song ends with Post Malone emphasizing his value and uniqueness, asserting that his talent in music and his identity cannot be diluted or erased. Overall, "Broken Whiskey Glass" paints a picture of someone who has faced adversity, grown from it, and is now determined to forge their own path to success.