Canadian country artist Tebey's composition, "What Was I Drinking," delves into the intricate emotional landscape following a breakup, elucidating the numbing influence of alcohol on the psyche. Initially introduced in 2019 as part of his album "Love a Girl," the song intricately narrates the journey of a protagonist who, grappling with the weight of heartache, seeks solace in intoxication, only to confront the hollowness of his actions in retrospect.
In the introductory verses, Tebey meticulously constructs a scene reminiscent of a conventional Friday night, where the protagonist finds himself amidst the company of friends, endeavoring to deflect the ache of separation. The ambiance of camaraderie and libation engenders a facade of ease and familiarity, concealing the underlying anguish that permeates the protagonist's being.
As the narrative unfolds, Tebey adeptly underscores the protagonist's dependence on alcohol as a palliative measure, utilizing its transient effects to delude himself into believing in the semblance of normalcy sans his erstwhile partner. Phrases such as "That buzz was leading me on, helping me to forget" poignantly illustrate the evanescent respite alcohol affords, blurring the demarcation between verity and illusion.
However, the refrain assumes a pivotal role, serving as a poignant refrain amidst the melodic landscape, heralding the protagonist's awakening to the futility of his coping mechanism. The recurrent interrogation of "What was I drinking?" reverberates with the weight of remorse and introspection, encapsulating the protagonist's anguish as he grapples with the repercussions of his actions.
Throughout the composition, Tebey skillfully interlaces a tapestry of denial and self-delusion, articulating the protagonist's tumultuous odyssey towards emotional reconciliation. Despite his fervent endeavors to rationalize his detachment, the lingering specter of longing and heartache invariably resurfaces, underscoring the profundity of his emotional entanglement.
In the bridge, Tebey ventures into the depths of the protagonist's emotional terrain, acknowledging the ephemeral facade of bravado and denial perpetuated by intoxication. The recurrent invocation of "What was I drinking?" serves as a sobering testament to the protagonist's vulnerability, delineating the inherent limitations of alcohol as a panacea for emotional turmoil.
In summation, Tebey's "What Was I Drinking" transcends the realms of mere musicality, offering a profound meditation on the complexities of love and heartbreak. Through its poignant lyricism and evocative storytelling, the composition resonates with listeners traversing the arduous terrain of post-breakup introspection, serving as a poignant testament to the impermanence of solace found in libation and the enduring resilience of the human spirit.
