I agree with toadtw's interpretation of the song except for one thing. The "seldom seen kid" isn't in reference to a literal son, it's a nod to a friend of the band who recently died when they were making the album, singer/songwriter Brian Glancy according to Guy Garvey.
I agree with toadtw's interpretation of the song except for one thing. The "seldom seen kid" isn't in reference to a literal son, it's a nod to a friend of the band who recently died when they were making the album, singer/songwriter Brian Glancy according to Guy Garvey.
The interview is here: youtube.com/watch
That aside, I agree completely. Few bands write better songs about alcoholism than Elbow. This song is awesome!