Madman
Silverchair Lyrics

Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴

I can't release you
You're a madman
Need help to
Madman, madman

You're tied to alcohol
It starts to take its toll
Madman, madman

Oh, madman

Mind filled with confusion
Your life's an illusion
Madman, madman, oh

Madman, madman
Madman

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Silverchair's song "Madman" convey a message of helplessness and concern for someone who is struggling with alcohol addiction. The singer feels unable to let go of the person, despite their destructive behavior. The repeated phrase "madman" emphasizes the severity of the situation and suggests that the person's actions are irrational and dangerous.

The lines "Your life's an illusion" and "Mind filled with confusion" suggest that the person is struggling with more than just addiction, but also with mental health issues. The singer recognizes the toll that alcoholism is taking on their loved one and expresses hopelessness in their ability to help.

Line by Line Meaning

I can't release you
I am unable to set you free

You're a madman
You're mentally unstable

Need help to
You require assistance to

Madman, madman
You're a maniac, a complete lunatic

You're tied to alcohol
You're addicted to alcohol

It starts to take its toll
It's beginning to have a negative effect on you

Madman, madman
You're a maniac, a complete lunatic

Oh, madman
Oh, you're completely insane

Mind filled with confusion
Your thoughts are a mess, you're mentally disordered

Your life's an illusion
Your existence is a delusion

Madman, madman, oh
You're a maniac, a complete lunatic, oh