The meaning of the lyrics of the song "Patton State Hospital" by the artist "We Are Augustines"

The song "Patton State Hospital" by We Are Augustines portrays a person trapped in a psychiatric hospital, battling addiction, possibly to drugs.

The first verse describes the protagonist's attempts to regain control ("You can try and make them right"), but their addiction proves stronger ("your sea legs won't hold you"). The line "You use your rubbers, but you wake with empty hands" hints at futile attempts to control their addiction or at sexual promiscuity resulting from their condition.

The second verse speaks of the protagonist's desire to retain their sanity ("You'll stay in your right mind") and shed the stigma ("take the stigma out") of their condition. "Fornication" can be interpreted as a metaphor for addiction, and "some more besides" suggests other struggles the protagonist faces.

The chorus paints a bleak picture: "the junkie trail" symbolizes the path of self-destruction inevitably leading to death ("bound to kill you someday"). "Shame, just retire" might refer to societal judgment and stigmatization of the mentally ill. "Don't you worry, we'll fix you up, James" sounds sarcastic, highlighting the detachment and indifference of the healthcare system.

The third verse conveys the protagonist's despair: "Oh, Lord, don't let them win" – a plea for help, a fear of succumbing to the illness. "You're losing your form" – an indication of deteriorating physical and mental states. The image of "ghosts on the avenues at night" symbolizes the fears haunting the protagonist and premonition of an impending end.

The repetition of the chorus amplifies the feeling of hopelessness and doom. The name "James" might address a specific person or serve as a collective image, representing everyone facing a similar tragedy.