Maybe I am totally wrong here, but it seems pretty obviously to me that this song is about drug addiction. I think anyone who has gone through a drug addiction (me being one of those people) can see that pretty plainly. BUT I also agree that it can be viewed on another level, particularly dealing with the greed that is so prevalent in (American) capitalistic society today. However, while I am sure the Avett Brothers are smart enough that they were aware of multiple meanings behind this song (or at least particular lines in the song), I definitely think it was written, as a whole, about dealing with and trying to overcome drug addiction.
@deekbooter It's about their addiction to success/fame (just as much a drug to them). They recognize an insatiable thirst, but in their heart know that the fame is not what will be what fulfills it. @Philsname32 nailed the scriptural reference up above, they know what what their purpose is and how misguided their focus is. This is about their continued internal conflict of seeking fame over love/fellowship/family.
@deekbooter It's about their addiction to success/fame (just as much a drug to them). They recognize an insatiable thirst, but in their heart know that the fame is not what will be what fulfills it. @Philsname32 nailed the scriptural reference up above, they know what what their purpose is and how misguided their focus is. This is about their continued internal conflict of seeking fame over love/fellowship/family.
Maybe I am totally wrong here, but it seems pretty obviously to me that this song is about drug addiction. I think anyone who has gone through a drug addiction (me being one of those people) can see that pretty plainly. BUT I also agree that it can be viewed on another level, particularly dealing with the greed that is so prevalent in (American) capitalistic society today. However, while I am sure the Avett Brothers are smart enough that they were aware of multiple meanings behind this song (or at least particular lines in the song), I definitely think it was written, as a whole, about dealing with and trying to overcome drug addiction.
@deekbooter It's about their addiction to success/fame (just as much a drug to them). They recognize an insatiable thirst, but in their heart know that the fame is not what will be what fulfills it. @Philsname32 nailed the scriptural reference up above, they know what what their purpose is and how misguided their focus is. This is about their continued internal conflict of seeking fame over love/fellowship/family.
@deekbooter It's about their addiction to success/fame (just as much a drug to them). They recognize an insatiable thirst, but in their heart know that the fame is not what will be what fulfills it. @Philsname32 nailed the scriptural reference up above, they know what what their purpose is and how misguided their focus is. This is about their continued internal conflict of seeking fame over love/fellowship/family.