Emily

Catfish And The Bottlemen's song 'Emily' delves into the emotional turbulence and existential search for meaning experienced by a young adult. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a protagonist navigating the bustling, often overwhelming landscape of New York City. At 21, the protagonist is in desperate need of something to lift them out of the monotony and dissatisfaction of their current social circle. The recurring character, Emily, serves as a confidante and a source of temporary escape, as they share moments of introspection and discuss the complexities of love.

The song's narrative reveals a sense of loss and disorientation, particularly highlighted by the line, 'I think I lost my way a bit.' This admission of vulnerability is compounded by the mention of losing a significant other just six days into a relationship, which suggests a pattern of fleeting connections and emotional instability. However, the protagonist finds a form of salvation through music, as writing 'two tunes' becomes a therapeutic outlet that not only provides financial relief but also helps to momentarily distract from the pain of lost love.

As the protagonist turns 22, the need for something more substantial to anchor them becomes even more pressing. The cyclical nature of their interactions with Emily and the continued reliance on substances to cope with emotional turmoil underscore a deeper yearning for stability and purpose. The song captures the essence of youthful angst and the struggle to find one's place in a chaotic world, ultimately highlighting the redemptive power of creative expression as a means of navigating personal crises.