Song meaning of Делать это трезвым (To do it When You’re Sober) by Валентин Стрыкало (Strikalo)

The song "Делать это трезвым" (To do it When You're Sober) by Валентин Стрыкало (Strikalo) explores themes of self-destruction, regret, and the inability to meet expectations. The lyrics paint a picture of a protagonist who is trapped in a cycle of falling and decaying, seeking forgiveness and redemption.

In the first verse, the singer admits to their shortcomings, stating "Всё, что я умею — это падать и гнить" (All I know how to do is fall and decay). This line suggests a sense of hopelessness and a lack of control over their actions. The protagonist acknowledges their mistakes and hopes for forgiveness, saying "Я дождусь рассвета, пусть мне выжжет глаза" (I will wait for the dawn, let my eyes burn).

The bridge reveals a shared longing for something greater, as the singer questions their partner, "Что ты мечтала о большем? Да, я тоже" (What did you dream of? Yes, me too). This line implies that both individuals in the relationship had aspirations and dreams that have not been fulfilled, adding to their sense of dissatisfaction.

The chorus emphasizes the protagonist's inability to perform certain actions while sober, stating "Я не могу делать это трезвым" (I can't do it when I'm sober). This line suggests that the protagonist relies on substances or altered states of mind to cope with their emotions or fulfill expectations. The repetition of this line throughout the chorus emphasizes their frustration and the futility of attempting to meet these expectations without the aid of substances.

The third verse delves deeper into the protagonist's struggles, mentioning therapy and a desire for death, "Я читал статьи, меня лечил терапевт, Но я всё равно хочу умереть" (I read articles, I was treated by a therapist, But I still want to die). This verse highlights the protagonist's desperation and the feeling of being trapped in their own darkness. The mention of the "свет в конце тоннеля" (light at the end of the tunnel) being an "адская печь" (hellish furnace) suggests that even the prospect of hope or redemption feels unbearable.

In the outro, the repetition of the line "Делать это так, как ты ждёшь" (To do it as you expect) reinforces the theme of unmet expectations and the protagonist's inability to fulfill them. It serves as a reminder of their constant struggle and the weight of disappointment.

Overall, "Делать это трезвым" by Валентин Стрыкало (Strikalo) delves into the complexities of addiction, emotional turmoil, and the longing for something more. The lyrics paint a bleak picture of a protagonist who is trapped in a cycle of self-destruction and unable to meet the expectations placed upon them.