Inhaler

Foals' song 'Inhaler' delves into themes of personal struggle, suffocation, and the quest for space and identity. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone feeling trapped and overwhelmed by their circumstances. The opening lines, 'Sticks and stones / Don't break my bones / They're make-believe,' suggest a sense of resilience against external attacks, but also hint at a deeper, internal struggle that is harder to combat. The repeated mention of 'make-believe' underscores a feeling of disillusionment and a disconnect from reality.

The chorus, with its plea for space—'I can't get enough space'—is a powerful metaphor for the need to break free from constraints, whether they be societal, emotional, or self-imposed. The imagery of being 'rusted gold' and 'stripped and sold' conveys a sense of being worn down and devalued, yet still possessing an inherent worth. This duality reflects the internal conflict of feeling both valuable and undervalued at the same time.

The song also touches on themes of war and conflict, both literal and metaphorical. Lines like 'How do you feel now in a war?' and 'War sends out for you' suggest a battle against external pressures and internal demons. The repeated refrain of 'space' emphasizes the suffocating nature of these struggles and the desperate need for relief. The song's raw energy and intense emotion are amplified by the driving instrumentation, making 'Inhaler' a cathartic anthem for anyone feeling overwhelmed and in need of liberation.