Meaning of "Old Number Seven" by The Devil Makes Three

The lyrics of "Old Number Seven" by The Devil Makes Three convey a story of struggle, escapism, and finding solace in alcohol. The narrator reflects on their upbringing, which was marked by poverty and a stark contrast between their own circumstances and those of the wealthy neighbors. This upbringing has shaped the narrator into someone who has seen and experienced things that they wish they hadn't, causing a sense of detachment and disillusionment.

The repeated phrase "Thank you Jack Daniel's Old Number Seven, Tennessee Whiskey got me drinking in heaven" serves as a central motif in the song, representing the narrator's reliance on alcohol to cope with their circumstances. They view alcohol as a gateway to heaven, where they can escape from their problems and find solace. The lyrics imply that alcohol is their source of comfort and that without it, they feel lost and disconnected.

The mention of angels looking good and the desire to be deported to the fiery deep highlight the narrator's longing for an escape from their current reality. Their reliance on alcohol has distorted their perception, making them view dangerous situations or consequences as desirable and preferable to their current state of being. This desperation for an escape suggests a deep-rooted dissatisfaction and desire to find relief from the hardships and struggles of life.

The lyrics also touch upon the idea of self-destruction and self-medication. The narrator confesses that they cannot go a week without doing wrong, indicating a pattern of behavior that leads to negative consequences. The lyrics portray drinking as both a coping mechanism and a destructive habit, highlighting the complex relationship the narrator has with alcohol.

Overall, "Old Number Seven" explores themes of struggle, escapism, and the destructive consequences of relying on alcohol as a means of comfort. It paints a picture of a narrator who feels trapped in their circumstances, seeking solace and relief through alcohol despite the negative consequences it brings.