The song "Ernest Borgnine" by John Grant is a tribute to the late actor Ernest Borgnine and explores themes of self-reflection, addiction, and the search for purpose and guidance. The lyrics contemplate the question of how much is enough in life, acknowledging that it is a difficult question to answer. The song begins by referencing personal struggles with addiction, overcoming substances like hooch, crack, and smack, only to find oneself in an even worse state. The protagonist sees a doctor who diagnoses them with a disease, possibly referring to the consequences of their past actions. The lyrics suggest that the protagonist had opportunities to change but may have been afraid to do so, relying on numbers or calculations instead of taking action. The chorus repeatedly wonders what Ernest Borgnine, a respected actor, would do in similar situations. This serves as a metaphor for seeking guidance and inspiration from someone admired and respected. The lyrics comment on the notion of having a difficult life in a first-world country, suggesting that gaining perspective by exploring the wider world can provide clarity. The song warns against becoming trapped in knowledge and spending too much time alone, urging the protagonist to slow down and connect with others. The protagonist is described as someone who never learns, constantly engulfed in their own thoughts and feeling like they are getting old. The lyrics encourage them not to panic because there is time to address these concerns later. The chorus is repeated twice, emphasizing the curiosity about what Ernest Borgnine, a role model, would do in these circumstances. The lyrics reveal that the artist had the opportunity to meet Borgnine once and found him to be cool, suggesting a personal admiration for the actor's experiences and wisdom. The artist wishes for Borgnine to call and guide them, taking them to school in the metaphorical sense of teaching and enlightening. Overall, "Ernest Borgnine" highlights the struggles of the protagonist and the search for guidance, using the persona of Ernest Borgnine as a figure to look up to and learn from.
