The song "Prisoner" by James Arthur is about someone who struggles with addiction and feels trapped by their destructive behavior. The lyrics describe the protagonist's desire to change and break free from their addiction, but they feel powerless against the devil's grip. The song portrays the protagonist as a prisoner of their own mind, bound by heavy chains around their neck. They have tried to change, but the devil has locked their door, preventing them from making progress. The lyrics also touch on the protagonist's relationships, specifically with their partner's mother, who dislikes them for being "Northern scum." This further emphasizes their feeling of being trapped and unwanted. The chorus repeats the line "I just wanna love, but he won't let me go" as a plea for help and a desire to break free from their addictions. The song also highlights the emotional toll addiction can have on someone, as the protagonist struggles with their mind being "on the blink." Overall, "Prisoner" is a powerful expression of the struggle with addiction and the desire to break free from its hold. It speaks to the importance of seeking help and breaking free from the heavy chains that hold us down.
