Meaning of 2 Fingers of Whiskey by Elton John

In Elton John's heartfelt song '2 Fingers of Whiskey,' the overarching theme revolves around inner struggles, self-destructive behaviors, and the desperate desire for liberation and redemption. The lyrics are filled with raw emotions and vivid imagery, allowing listeners to delve into the complexities of human nature and the battles we all face within ourselves.The song begins with the admission of cheating just to get by. This lyric speaks to the theme of desperation and the lengths we may go to in order to cope with the challenges life presents. It highlights the human tendency to seek temporary relief from our problems, even if it means making questionable choices.Another powerful lyric in the song is "If I can't save my sinnin' whys, gonna keep on getting high." This line delves into the theme of escapism and self-medication. It speaks to the urge to numb our pain and drown our sorrows, often resorting to substances or other destructive behaviors as a means of temporary relief.The chorus, "Two fingers of whiskey, good ol' fashioned rye, wish I was bound for glory and prohibition dry," amplifies the theme of yearning for redemption. It highlights the longing to break free from the grip of one's own vices and find a path towards a better, brighter future. The mention of prohibition dry adds an interesting twist, intertwining the desire for personal growth with societal expectations and restrictions.One particularly evocative line is "I'm hanging on the hook of the moon." This lyric paints a haunting picture of being trapped, caught between the celestial realm and the earthly struggles. It symbolizes the internal conflict, the battle between one's aspirations and the constant pull of their own weaknesses and failures.The analogy of a dog wanting to howl is another standout lyric. It represents a primal instinct, a yearning to express oneself and release the pent-up emotions that weigh heavily on the soul. It ties into the theme of catharsis, emphasizing the need to let go, to howl away the pain and find solace in embracing one's true self.Throughout the song, Elton John continues to paint a vivid picture of a person grappling with their demons, desperately seeking salvation. The repetition of the line "To keep drowning the devil living in me" reinforces the ongoing struggle to silence the inner turmoil and find peace within oneself.Overall, '2 Fingers of Whiskey' captures the universal struggle of human existence, the quest to battle personal demons, and the longing for redemption. The various lyrics in the song touch upon themes such as desperation, escapism, yearning for redemption, internal conflict, catharsis, and the desire to break free from self-destructive patterns. By exploring these imaginative and unexpected themes, Elton John invites the listener to reflect on their own struggles and find solace in knowing that they are not alone in their journey towards self-discovery and personal growth.