Between the Bars Lyrics
Drink up, baby, stay up all night
With the things you could do, you won't but you might
The potential you'll be, that you'll never see
The promises you'll only make
Drink up with me now and forget all about
The pressure of days, do what I say
And I'll make you okay and drive them away
The images stuck in your head
[Chorus]
People you've been before that you
Don't want around anymore
That push and shove and won't bend to your will
I'll keep them still
[Verse 2]
Drink up, baby, look at the stars
I'll kiss you again, between the bars
Where I'm seeing you there, with your hands in the air
Waiting to finally be caught
Drink up one more time and I'll make you mine
Keep you apart, deep in my heart
Separate from the rest, where I like you the best
And keep the things you forgot
About
“Between the Bars” explains the power of addiction; the call of a drink. It can be interpreted in many ways, but the most popular analysis is that the alcohol is ‘speaking’ to Elliott. As described in the song, Elliott explains how he used to be someone else—someone with potential. The alcohol lets him ‘forget all about the pressure of days’ and together with his poisonous companion, Elliott is able to disappear into another night that goes on too long.
Smith obviously had issues with alcohol and drugs, which can be seen in many songs, but especially in “Between the Bars.” Many of Smith’s songs were inspired by the experiences he had with alcohol and drugs.
Q&A
Find answers to frequently asked questions about the song and explore its deeper meaning
- 1.Speed Trials
- 2.Alameda
- 4.Between the Bars
- 7.Rose Parade
- 9.Angeles
- 10.Cupid’s Trick
- 11.2:45 AM
- 12.Say Yes