Drowning By Numbers

Album: Placebo (1996)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • This song deals with the reality of acceptance and persecution. Lead singer Brian Molko feels consumed by the reality of his chromosome ("Try losing, this chromosome"), choosing to be a woman instead of a man in self image, and drowning in the bigotry and apathy of society's own conservative doctrine ("such determination always tries to turn the tide," "open up your heart," "open up your soul"). By trying to assimilate his beliefs and feelings into someone he cares about he is being punished ("auto-flagellation always helps the ghost to hide"). The reality of his blood and his genetics consumes him with self loathing ("blood," "drowning"). The repetitive nature of this behavior is reflected by the repeating of the lyrics to simulate constant drowning. >>>
    Suggestion credit:
    Shaun - Adelaide, Australia
  • This was released as a B-side to Placebo's debut single, "Come Home." It was also included on the track list of the 2006 reissue of their self-titled debut album.

Comments

Be the first to comment...

Editor's Picks

Jason Newsted (ex-Metallica)

Jason Newsted (ex-Metallica)Songwriter Interviews

The former Metallica bassist talks about his first time writing a song with James Hetfield, and how a hand-me-down iPad has changed his songwriting.

Famous Singers' First Films

Famous Singers' First FilmsSong Writing

A look at the good (Diana Ross, Eminem), the bad (Madonna, Bob Dylan) and the peculiar (David Bowie, Michael Jackson) film debuts of superstar singers.

Francesca Battistelli

Francesca BattistelliSongwriter Interviews

The 2011 Artist of the Year at the Dove Awards isn't your typical gospel diva, and she thinks that's a good thing.

Barney Hoskyns Explores The Forgotten History Of Woodstock, New York

Barney Hoskyns Explores The Forgotten History Of Woodstock, New YorkSong Writing

Our chat with Barney Hoskyns, who covers the wild years of Woodstock - the town, not the festival - in his book Small Town Talk.

Spot The Real Red Hot Chili Peppers Song Titles

Spot The Real Red Hot Chili Peppers Song TitlesMusic Quiz

The Red Hot Chili Peppers have some rather unusual song titles - see if you can spot the real ones.

Dan Reed

Dan ReedSongwriter Interviews

Dan cracked the Top 40 with "Ritual," then went to India and spent 2 hours with the Dalai Lama.