Consolation Prizefighter
Braid Lyrics

Possible interpretation:

The opening lines suggest that there's a mental obstacle preventing the singer from thinking clearly, but they claim that they're okay despite being a deceiver by nature. They want someone to give them something recognizable to hold onto, like a product name, so they can feel a sense of control over the outside world, indicated by the reference to the collar of the phone caller (either a literal or a metaphorical image). The repeated refrain of "ring ring" reinforces the idea of communication as both a means of connection and a source of interruption or annoyance.

The next lines mix metaphors of boxing and bathing, as the singer seems to be considering giving up and letting someone else take the lead. The phrase "consolation prizefighter" implies that they haven't been a successful contender in the actual game of life, and that they're settling for less or trying to find some comfort in being a runner-up. The use of plural forms ("who'll chose," "tears in the towel") makes it unclear whether the singer is addressing themselves or other people, or both, as potential spectators or participants in this struggle. The brawl could be seen as a sign of courage or recklessness, and the tears could be seen as a sign of weakness or frustration. The metaphor of the towel being thrown in also suggests surrendering or admitting defeat.

The last verse describes a scene where the singer is either driving or walking, and some strangers insult them for no apparent reason (unless being meek counts as a provocation). The singer feels vulnerable and ignorant, but still determined to assert themselves somehow. They ask for a toy gun to use as a phallic symbol of dominance, but the gesture seems more pathetic than menacing. The final line is ambiguous, as it could mean the singer has won too little, too late, or has won a few times but encountered too many losses or opponents. The sense of inadequacy and dissatisfaction lingers, as the song fades out.

Overall, "Consolation Prize Fighter" expresses a mix of anxiety, detachment, and rebellion, with a surreal and fragmented imagery that reflects the complexities and absurdities of modern life.