"How Not to Drown" has a theme of surviving and staying conscious when faced with adversity. The writers are describing the struggles of life and how it can feel suffocating, like drowning. The lyric "I'm writing a book on how to stay conscious when you drown" implies that the singer has gained experience in handling difficult situations and is now writing a guide to help others do the same.

The song alludes to the idea of fame, with lines like "You promised the world and brought me it hanging from a string" and "You can't kill the king, and those who kiss the ring," suggesting that the artists have perhaps experienced betrayal or disappointment from someone who had power over them. The repetition of the line "tell me how" in the chorus could be a plea for guidance or a cry for help. At the same time, it could also be an admission of uncertainty about how to navigate the complexities of life.

The verse sung by Robert Smith explores the aftermath of hardship in life and how to cope with it. The line "I'm writing a chapter on what to do after they dig you up" suggests that the themes of the song have been informed by experiences of overcoming adversity. The implication is that the struggle doesn't end when the immediate danger passes and that there is a need for a long-term strategy for handling the difficulties of life.

Overall, "How Not to Drown" is a song that explores the idea of survival in the face of adversity and offers a guide to others who may be struggling to stay afloat. It is a message of hope that advises people on how to keep their head above water when they feel like they're drowning.