Crab Eyes
Moe Lyrics

In Crab Eyes by Moe, the lyrics describe someone struggling with addiction and the harsh reality of what it takes to fuel their habit. The lyrics begin by offering to give the listener a "clean cool buzz" of cocaine. The mention of "selling your blood down" implies that the person is willing to do whatever it takes to get their fix, even if it means participating in dangerous or unhealthy activities. Despite all of this, the lyrics suggest that it is important to remain true to your friends, even though everyone knows where addiction ultimately leads: with a "boom." The chorus repeats the sound of an explosive "boom" and "bang," which could represent the unpredictable and destructive nature of addiction.

The second verse focuses on a woman who has likely found herself in a situation where she needs to panhandle money on the subway. The "old man with a tin can in his hand" may be a reflection of the singer's own future if they don't overcome their addiction. The repetition of the "boom" and "bang" sounds create a sense of urgency and anxiety, perhaps representing the fear that this could be the listener's future as well.

The repetition of the offering of a "clean cool buzz" throughout the song contrasts with the reference to feeling lonely with the wealth that the addiction is fueled by. It could be interpreted that the individual could be trapped and lonely in their addiction, but the monetary gains only give a temporary sense of satisfaction. The chorus seems to represent the cyclical nature of addiction, with the final lines of the song implying that the woman is returning to someone who she believes will hold her, but overall the song raises questions about salvation from the cycle itself.