About the song
“From the Bottle to the Bottom” is a heartfelt and introspective song by Kris Kristofferson, featured on his self-titled debut album released in 1970. The song delves into themes of heartbreak, addiction, and the struggle to cope with emotional pain, showcasing Kristofferson’s profound lyrical ability and storytelling.
Lyrically, the song paints a vivid picture of a man’s descent into alcoholism as a means of escaping his troubles. The narrative reflects on the cycle of drinking and its consequences, capturing the feelings of loneliness and regret that often accompany substance abuse. Kristofferson’s words convey a sense of vulnerability and honesty, making it relatable to anyone who has experienced the weight of sorrow and the desire to find solace.
Musically, “From the Bottle to the Bottom” features a simple yet effective arrangement, typical of Kristofferson’s style, which combines elements of country, folk, and rock. His distinctive gravelly voice delivers the poignant lyrics with an emotional depth that resonates deeply with listeners. The instrumentation is understated, allowing the focus to remain on the storytelling and the raw emotions conveyed.
The song is notable not only for its thematic depth but also for its reflection of the struggles faced by many during the era. It speaks to the broader societal issues of addiction and despair, making it a timeless piece that continues to resonate with audiences today.
Overall, “From the Bottle to the Bottom” stands out as a significant work in Kris Kristofferson’s discography. It showcases his exceptional talent as a songwriter and his ability to address complex human emotions with sincerity and grace. The song remains a poignant reminder of the challenges of life and the search for redemption.
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Lyrics
You ask me if I’m happy now
That’s good as any joke I’ve heard
It seems that since I’ve seen you last
I done forgot the meaning of the words
If happiness is empty rooms
And drinkin’ in the afternoon
Well I suppose I’m happy as a clam
But if it’s got a thing to do
With smilin’ of forgettin’ you
Well I don’t guess that I could say I am
Did you ever see a down and outer waking up alone
Without a blanket on to keep him from the dew
When the water from the weeds has soaked the paper
He’s been puttin’ in his shoes to keep the ground from comin’ through
And his future feels as empty as the pocket in his pants
Because he’s never seen a single dream come true
That’s the way that I’ve been feelin’ since the day I started falling
From the bottle to the bottom stool by stool
Learnin’ hard to live with losin’ you
You wonder if I’m better off
With freedom now to do the things I choose
With all my times my own and
I got nothin’ left but sleepin’ time to lose
There’s no one here to carry on
If I stay out the whole night long
or give a tankerous damn if I don’t call
I’m livin’ like I wanted to
And doin’ things I want to do
And nothin’ means a thing to me at all
Did you ever see a down and outer waking up alone
Without a blanket on to keep him from the dew
When the water from the weeds has soaked the paper
He’s been puttin’ in his shoes to keep the ground from comin’ through
And his future feels as empty as the pocket in his pants
Because he’s never seen a single dream come true
That’s the way that I’ve been feelin’ since the day I started falling
Did you ever see a down and outer waking up alone
Without a blanket on to keep him from the dew
When the water from the weeds soaked the paper
He’s been puttin’ in his shoes to keep the ground from comin’ through
And his future feels as empty as the pocket in his pants
Because he’s never seen a single dream come true
That’s the way that I’ve been feelin’ since the day I started falling
From the bottle to the bottom stool by stool
Learnin’ hard to live with losin’ you.