The song "Daddy's On Prozac" by Joseph Arthur tells the story of a person who has experienced deep emotional and physical abuse from their father. The lyrics suggest that the protagonist is in recovery from the trauma inflicted upon them and now struggles with their father's lack of accountability and the lasting impact it has had on their life. In the first verse, it is revealed that the protagonist's father used violence as a form of love. The line "My daddy beat his love into me" implies that the father felt that physical abuse was a way to express affection. This has left the protagonist scarred both emotionally and physically. The second verse highlights the protagonist's indifference towards the negativity they faced in the past. They have overcome the pain associated with "sticks or stones" and verbal abuse. However, the emotional scars caused by the names their father called them are not easily healed. The line "The name he called me broke my bones" conveys the lasting impact of the hurtful words. The chorus reflects the protagonist's conflicted feelings towards their father and his potential redemption. They mention putting their father on Prozac, a medication used to treat depression and anxiety. This indicates a desire for their father to change and take responsibility for his actions. However, it is uncertain whether the protagonist wants their father back in their life or if they believe he can truly change. They also mention wanting to feel dangerous, possibly indicating a desire to overcome their past and emerge stronger. The bridge delves into the protagonist's upbringing in a family that seemed like an enemy to them. The feeling of captivity suggests that they were trapped in an unhealthy and abusive environment, possibly unable to escape. This further emphasizes the lasting impact of their upbringing and their struggle for freedom. Ultimately, "Daddy's On Prozac" explores the complexities of recovering from abuse, the yearning for accountability and change from the abuser, and the desire to break free from the cycle of abuse. The lyrics convey the pain and resilience of the protagonist as they navigate their recovery journey.
