Gonna See My Friend Lyrics

Lyric discussion by nortneybean 

Cover art for Gonna See My Friend lyrics by Pearl Jam

I agree with Pickles. I actually believe the entire album is about battling drug addiction. The beginning of the album has more of a chaotic sound to it bbecomes more peaceful as it goes on.

I think this song is the addict wrestling with the idea of sobering up. He says he want to shake this thing--addiction--but also that he is sick of everything and wants to make it go away, says he wants to give up, and then says he wants an overhau. I think "my friend" is either a metaphor for his drug or a euphemism for his dealer.